In Everglades National Park, the short-hydroperiod marl prairies are characterized by a variety of grasses, with sawgrass being one of the dominant species. Sawgrass, scientifically known as Cladium jamaicense, is a member of the Poaceae family and is well-adapted to the unique wetland environment of the Everglades.
Apart from sawgrass, another common grass found in these prairies is muhly grass. Muhly grass, also known as Muhlenbergia capillaris, adds a beautiful touch to the landscape with its feathery, pinkish-purple inflorescences. It is also a member of the Poaceae family and is well-suited to the hydrological conditions of the Everglades.
In addition to muhly grass, there are several other native grass species that thrive in the Everglades. Blackrush (Juncus effusus) is a perennial grass that forms dense clumps and is often found in marshy areas. Arrowfeather (Panicum anceps) is another grass species commonly observed in the Everglades. It has distinctive arrow-shaped leaves and can tolerate both wet and dry conditions.
Florida bluestem (Andropogon floridanus) is a warm-season grass that is well-suited to the sandy soils of the Everglades. It forms dense tufts and provides important habitat for wildlife. Elliot’s lovegrass (Eragrostis elliottii) is another grass species found in the Everglades. It has wiry stems and delicate seed heads, adding a touch of elegance to the prairies.
The vegetation in these short-hydroperiod marl prairies typically remains relatively short, usually less than 4 feet tall. This is due to the combined effects of regular flooding, nutrient-poor soils, and the presence of fire. These environmental factors shape the structure and composition of the grasslands, creating a unique and dynamic ecosystem.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to explore the Everglades and witness the beauty of its grasslands. Walking through the marl prairies, I was mesmerized by the vast expanse of sawgrass and the delicate pink hues of muhly grass. It was a humbling experience to be surrounded by such diverse and resilient plant life, adapted to the challenges of the Everglades’ wetland environment.
The grasses of the Everglades National Park, particularly in the short-hydroperiod marl prairies, consist of a variety of species including sawgrass, muhly grass, blackrush, arrowfeather, Florida bluestem, and Elliot’s lovegrass. These grasses have evolved to thrive in the unique hydrological conditions of the Everglades, contributing to the rich biodiversity and ecological functioning of this iconic wetland ecosystem.
