Georgia Invasive Species Task Force

Cogongrass

Imperata cylindrica (L.) Beauv.

Evans, C.W., C.T. Bargeron, D.J. Moorhead & G.K. Douce. 2005. Invasive Weeds in Georgia. The Bugwood Network, The University of Georgia.

Cogongrass is a perennial colony-forming grass that grows up to 3 feet tall. Leaves have an off-center and whitish midrib and rough edges. Sharp, branched, white rhizomes help identify this plant. Cogongrass is best identified by the large fuzzy panicle of flowers and seeds, giving the plant a cottony or silky look. Flowering occurs in late spring.

Cogongrass is native to Southeast Asia and was first introduced into the southeast United States in the early 1900s. It was initially planted for forage and erosion control; however it is unpalatable for livestock and not well suited for erosion control due to its aggressive behavior. Currently cogongrass is found in the southeastern United States and is sparse in South Georgia.

Cogongrass is an extremely aggressive invader with the capability to invade a range of sites. It forms dense mats that exclude all other vegetation, leading to its inclusion on the federal noxious weed list. It spreads both by rhizomes and wind-dispersed seeds. Infestations often occur in circular patterns. Cogongrass is very flammable and creates fire hazards, especially in winter.

Cogongrass is a federal noxious weed; any occurrence should be promptly reported.

Recommended herbicides for control:
Foliar spray – Arsenal AC, glyphosate, or combination of both

Photo by Wilson Faircloth, USDA ARS