MedusaheadTaeniatherum caput-medusae
BACKGROUND: Medusahead was brought to the United States from Eurasia. It is extremely competitive completely displacing other desirable grass species. It spreads by seed commonly carried by wind, animals, clothing, and vehicles.
Other common names: Medusahead rye
DESCRIPTION: Medusahead is an annual growing from six inches to two feet high. Leaf blades are about one-eighth inch wide. Awns of the seed head are long and become twisted as the seed matures. It is sometimes confused with foxtail barley or squirreltail, but is different in that the seed head doesn’t break apart completely as the seeds mature. Flowering and seed production take place in late spring and early summer.
CONTROL: Biocontrol is not available. A combination of burning, herbicide, and reseeding offers the best control. For the best results, this should be done in fall through early winter. Contact your local state or county weed specialist for specific updated information.