Johnson Grass

GRASSES

GENUS/SPECIES

Sorghum halepense

FAMILY

Poaceae
(includes all the grasses, including grains)

SYNONYMS

Common: Johnsongrass

DISTRIBUTION

Southern two-thirds of US

Central Nevada eastward through Nebraska
Nebraska eastward to S Michigan and Massachusetts
Massachusetts southward to S Florida
S Florida to S Texas to SE California
SE California to central Nevada
Hawaii

Human Product Number - 15

Veterinary Product Number - 15

Comments

Johnson grass is a rather large perennial grass introduced from the Mediterranean region that is related to the commercially-grown sorghum. It can get to be as tall as eight feet but is usually less than six. Leaves may reach 20 inches in length with a distinct white midvein, and may approach an inch in width. The flower head rather suggests a corn tassel but of more delicate proportions. Blooming is typically in late spring or early summer. Johnson grass attains its best development in warm regions and in rich moist soil. Reproduction can be achieved by seed or by aggressive vegetative spreading of underground rhizomes. This grass is one of the important “southern grasses” from the standpoint of allergy.