Травянистый злак Phalaris aquatica: описание и распространение

Species of plant

Phalaris aquatica, known by the common names bulbous canary grass and Harding grass, is a species of grass in the genus Phalaris of the family Poaceae.

It is an erect, waist high, stout perennial bunch grass, with grayish to bluish green leaves. Flowering heads are dense, spike like, and usually long. It is slow to develop from seed, but can form large bunches after several years. Phalaris arundinacea (reed canary grass) differs from Harding grass in having more distinct rhizomes, and an inflorescence that is compact at first but becomes more open as the branches spread. Hybrids of Harding grass and reed canary grass have been produced. Varieties include 'AQ1', 'Uneta', and 'Australis'. P. aquatica is a quick growing grass which incorporates and utilises soil nitrogen rapidly.

Phalaris aquatica originated from Southern Europe and the Caucasus. It is naturalized in South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and the USA. Although very recently introduced there, its pasture value was first recognised in Australia. Domesticated cultivation then spread to the United States, Argentina and several other countries in South America, and New Zealand. although Phalaris aquatica is said to be non toxic to them. In Victoria, Australia, it is reported that kangaroos grazing on Phalaris aquatica may develop a condition known familiarly as "Phalaris staggers", in which coordination and mobility are affected.

Harding grass is an invasive species in grassland, oak woodland, chaparral, and riparian habitats. Native grasses and grassland habitat in California are affected.