NC State Extension Publications

Description

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Buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides) is a low-growing, perennial, warm-season turfgrass native to the Great Plains of the United States. It is not planted in widespread areas in the Carolinas. Buffalograss is drought tolerant, and requires little fertilization. It is not adapted to shaded or heavily traveled sites.

Species Data

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  • SEEDHEAD / FLOWER
    • spike
  • VERNATION TYPE
    • rolled
  • LIGULE TYPE
  • GROWTH SEASON / LIFE CYCLE
    • warm season turf or perennial weed
  • AURICLE TYPE
    • absent
  • LEAF BLADE TIP SHAPE
    • sharp-pointed; flat, sparsely hairy, bluish-gray
  • LEAF BLADE WIDTH
    • 0.04 - 0.12 inches (1 - 3 mm) wide
  • STOLON PRESENCE
  • RHIZOME PRESENCE
    • absent
  • COLLAR TYPE
  • SHEATH MARGIN
    • open
broad view of Buffalograss next to ruler

Figure 1. Buffalograss ligule.

close-up view of Buffalograss ligule

Figure 2. Buffalograss ligule.

photo of stolon connecting two sprouts of Buffalograss.

Figure 3. Buffalograss stolon.

thin hairlike pieces where the Buffalograss leaf meets the stem

Figure 4. Buffalograss hairy collar.

additional photo of Buffalograss collar

Figure 5. Buffalograss collar type.

Author

Professor & Extension Specialist
Crop & Soil Sciences

Find more information at the following NC State Extension websites:

Publication date: Aug. 22, 2022

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