Glyceria grandis - Grass,Herbaceous Plants,Web page Navigation - American Mannagrass, Reed Meadowgrass, Tall Manna Grass Page

American Mannagrass, also known as Glyceria grandis, Reed Meadowgrass, or Tall Manna Grass, is a robust, perennial grass thriving in wetland communities and playing a crucial role in supporting diverse wildlife. This loosely clumped grass is characterized by its graceful, purplish flowering heads—open panicles ranging from 5 to 10 inches long with drooping tips. Each panicle hosts 15 to 50 spikelets, adding an aesthetic allure reminiscent of the related Torry's Manna Grass yet distinguishable by its closed sheaths and unique glume structure.

Reaching heights of 3 to 6 feet with a similar spread, American Mannagrass is a quintessential feature in shallow waters and wetlands, appreciated for its shiny, succulent foliage with a captivating yellow-green tint. It blooms from June to September, providing subtle purple-brown spikes amidst environments like marshes, fens, and ditches. Not only does it enhance natural landscapes, but it's also pivotal for wetland restoration efforts.

Supporting riparian birds, pollinators, and mammals, this resilient grass thrives in full to partial sun and is adaptable to moderate to high water conditions. Though limited in availability, its capacity to flourish under grazing and its ecological benefits make it a deserving addition to nature conservation programs.