Elephantgrass (Pennisetum Purpureum)

Poaceae (Grass Family) 

Group: Monocot (Grass)

Robust, erect, cane-like perennial plant native of tropical Africa. It is found in cultivated areas, wetlands, canals and ditches, and disturbed sites.

Leaf blades are flat, sandpapery with long stiff hairs on the upper surface, either sandpapery or smooth on the lower side. Blades are 3/4 to 1-1/4 inches wide and 12 to 29 inches long. Leaf sheaths are hairy at and near the bottom of the stem and smooth towards the top of the stem. Ligule is composed of long hairs.

Stem is erect, round, cane-like, 6 to 15 feet tall.

Flower or seed head appear similar to bristly "bottle brushes" and are typically 3-3/4 to 13 inches long. Seeds are mostly sterile.

Propagation is primarily vegetatively.