Rottboellia cochinchinensis is an annual grass that invades disturbed and agricultural areas throughout the southeastern United States.
Foliage
Stems and leaves are covered with stiff, irritating hairs. Stems can reach a height of 1-10 ft. (0.3-3 m). Leaf blades are 5.9-17.7 in. (15-45 cm) long, 0.2-0.8 in. (5-20 mm) wide and flat.
Flowers
The inflorescence is a jointed, cylindrical raceme, 1-6 in. (2.5-15.24) long.
Fruit
Under favorable conditions, Rottboellia cochinchinensis starts producing seeds 6-7 weeks after emergence. Seed production continues throughout the growing season.
Ecological Threat
Rottboellia cochinchinensis invades agricultural fields and other disturbed areas. The hairs on the stems and leaves can cause severe irritation, and the plant is unpalatable to livestock and wildlife. It is native to the Old World tropics, but it is currently widespread throughout the world’s tropical regions and in the southeastern United States.