Chloris barbata Sw.
| Etymology | Genus | After the Greek goddess of flowers |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Bearded, barbed | |
| Family | Poaceae | |
| Synonyms | Chloris inflata Link, Chloris longifolia Steud., Chloris paraguaiensis Steud. | |
| Common Names | Purpletop Chloris, Swollen Windmill Grass | |
| Status | Exotic: Naturalised | |
| Form | Herb | |
| Native Distribution | Obscure | |
Diagnostics
Chloris bartata is a common grass that is common is grasslands, scrublands or sprouting from cracks among concrete paths. It is easily identifiable form the finger-like inflorescences ranging from 5-15. On closer-inspections, the inflorescences are covered with purple bristle-like awns.
Interesting Facts
The origin of the Purpletop Chloris is uncertain, though possibly from tropical America (CABI, n.d.). It is now widespread throughout the tropics and some subtropical regions. It is reported to be a weed affecting sugarcane and rice crops in India, Indonesia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam and Hawaii (CABI, n.d.).
Clump of Purpletop Chloris showing their distinct inflorescences.
Form.
Inflorescence.
Close-up of inflorescence, showing the purple awns.
Leaf shealth.
Leaves.
References
CABI (n.d.) Chloris barbata (purpletop chloris). Invasive Species Compendium, Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International. https://www.cabi.org/ISC. Accessed on 17-Dec-2018.