Imperata

Imperata cylindrica (L.) Rauesch.

Cogon Grass

Natural range:  Tropical America (introduced in Florida)

Habitat:  Weed in moist sites

Recognition:  Inflorescence cylindric, cottony.  Anthers 2

 Quote from Flora of North America (Sept. 2007) on-line:

The current range of Imperata brasiliensis includes South America and Central America, Mexico, and Cuba. It is now thought to be established in the southeastern United States, although it is considered to be eliminated from Florida (Hall 1978); collections of Imperata made there since 1970 having proved to be I. cylindrica. The two species differ in the number of their stamens and the frequent absence of the lower lemma in I. brasiliensis.
 

Florida status:  Weedy nuisance