NC State Extension Publications

Description

Skip to Description

Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum) is a warm-season species that spreads by rhizomes, and is easily recognized by its characteristic "Y-shaped" seedhead. It exhibits low overall quality because of its light color, coarse texture, and open canopy. Due to its rapid lateral spread via aggressive rhizome production it is primarily used in areas where erosion control and immediate ground cover are the main concern. It is frequently planted on roadsides and highway rights of way because it has good drought tolerance. In addition, bahiagrass has the ability to tolerate a wide range of soils. Unfortunately, it can be a very competitive and unsightly weed in highly maintained turf.

Bahiagrass as a Weed

Skip to Bahiagrass as a Weed

Cultural Control

Bahiagrass is well suited for roadsides because of its good drought tolerance and general competitive ability in the southern United States. Unfortunately, it can be very competitive and unsightly in highly maintained turf. As with other perennial paspalums, bahiagrass can be difficult to control. Every effort should be made to prevent these weedy grasses from becoming established in turf, as selective control measures are usually difficult. Maintaining a dense, healthy turf year round by proper mowing and fertilization helps prevent encroachment and weed establishment.

Species Data

Skip to Species Data
Figure 1. Bahiagrass seedhead.

Figure 1. Bahiagrass seedhead.

Figure 2. Bahiagrass seedhead.

Figure 2. Bahiagrass seedhead.

Figure 3. Bahiagrass crown.

Figure 3. Bahiagrass crown.

Figure 4. Bahiagrass vernation.

Figure 4. Bahiagrass vernation.

Figure 5. Bahiagrass vernation.

Figure 5. Bahiagrass vernation.

Figure 6. Hairy leaf base.

Figure 6. Hairy leaf base.

Figure 7. Bahiagrass vernation.

Figure 7. Bahiagrass vernation.

Figure 8. Ligule type.

Figure 8. Ligule type.

Figure 9. Bahiagrass blades.

Figure 9. Bahiagrass blades.

Figure 10. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 10. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 11. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 11. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 12. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 12. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 13. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 13. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 14. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 14. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 15. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 15. Bahiagrass rhizomes.

Figure 16. Bahiagrass collar.

Figure 16. Bahiagrass collar.

Figure 17. Bahiagrass collar.

Figure 17. Bahiagrass collar.

Figure 18. Bahiagrass hairy leaf base.

Figure 18. Bahiagrass hairy leaf base.

Figure 19. Bahiagrass sheath.

Figure 19. Bahiagrass sheath.

Author

Extension Specialist (Turfgrass/Forage Crop Weed Mgt)
Crop & Soil Sciences

Find more information at the following NC State Extension websites:

Publication date: Aug. 22, 2022

Recommendations for the use of agricultural chemicals are included in this publication as a convenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by NC State University or N.C. A&T State University nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Individuals who use agricultural chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage regulations and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. For assistance, contact your local N.C. Cooperative Extension county center.

N.C. Cooperative Extension prohibits discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status.