Figure 1: Group of Distichis spicata
© Alison Sheehey
Figure 2: Stem and nodes. Hitchcock, A.S.
Figure 3: Flower of Distichlis spicata Gerald and Buff Corsi © California Academcy of Sciences
Figure 4: Achene a wheat like fruit. Steve Hurst
Distichlis spicata is easily known for its several characteristic features (See Figure 1). It has a generally round and hollow stem with swollen nodes and can grow in large monocultures (See Figure 2). Its leaves are linear and 2 ranked with open sheaths and a hairy membrane. Its flowers are generally plumose bisexual structures with three stamens and two stigmas (See Figure 3). It also produces grain like fruits called achene (See Figure 4).
This medium-tall (6-18 inches) halophyte can be found in brackish and salt marshes and will grow in soils with a salinity of 8.1%. This plant is an important food source for large migratory birds such as geese. It is ideal for this because of it warm season growth. It flowers from April to July which puts it to maturity by the fall.
This plant is also fire adapted; it can establish after fire by lateral rhizome spread or seed dispersal. The diversity of the species allows it to grow in areas that have a fire frequency as high as once a year, as well as, in areas with a fire frequency as low as once every 35-100 years. The diversity and ability to live in harsh conditions of this plant has given some unique adaptations and uses. It secretes extra salt that is taken up through pores in the leaves. It is also resistant to trampling. These characteristics give it several horticultural uses which include: providing a large percentage of winter foliage for cattle and sheep; erosion control in high traffic areas; a summer cattle deterrent because of the rough and salty foliage; and a ground cover.