When it comes to grasses, it is not very common to see them flowering. However, there are a couple of grass types that do produce flowers. In most cases, if you’re seeing your grass flower, it is likely to be either Kentucky Bluegrass or Poa Annua. Let’s take a closer look at each of these grass types.
1. Kentucky Bluegrass:
Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis) is a cool-season grass that is widely used in lawns, parks, and sports fields. It is known for its dense, lush growth and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. While Kentucky Bluegrass is primarily propagated through seed, it can also spread through underground stems called rhizomes.
Flowering in Kentucky Bluegrass is not very common, but under certain conditions, it can produce small, inconspicuous flowers in late spring or early summer. These flowers are typically light green or purplish in color and are borne on tall, slender stalks called culms. The flowers are wind-pollinated and, once pollinated, can produce viable seeds. However, most homeowners mow their lawns before the flowers fully develop, preventing seed production.
2. Poa Annua:
Poa Annua, also known as annual bluegrass, is a grass species that is considered an annual weed in most cases. It is a low-growing grass with a light green color and fine texture. Poa Annua is often found in lawns, garden beds, and disturbed areas. It can quickly invade and dominate lawns, competing with desirable grass species.
Poa Annua is known for its prolific flowering. It produces small, white or green flowers that are held on slender stems above the grass blades. These flowers can appear throughout the year, but they are most abundant in spring and early summer. The flowers are also wind-pollinated and can produce copious amounts of seeds, leading to the weed’s ability to spread rapidly.
If you notice your grass flowering, it is likely to be either Kentucky Bluegrass or Poa Annua. Kentucky Bluegrass is a desirable grass type often used in lawns, while Poa Annua is considered an annual weed. While flowering is not common in Kentucky Bluegrass, it can produce small flowers under certain conditions. On the other hand, Poa Annua is known for its prolific flowering and seed production, which contributes to its weed-like behavior.
