Wavyleaf Basketgrass

Oplismenus hirtellus ssp. undulatifolius

Wavyleaf basketgrass forms dense mats under a deciduous forest canopy.  The mats are so dense that native vegetation, including tree sprouts, cannot grow. It has been noticed in Maryland. There is a strong concern that it will become a serious problem in the southeast if nothing is done. Please watch out for wavyleaf basketgrass. 

Wavyleaf basketgrass is a grass which trails along the ground by branching out at stem nodes. The leaf blades (½” wide, 1½ - 4” long) lie flat on the ground and are wavy, hence the name, and taper into a sharp tip.  The leaf sheaths and stems are hairy. Its flowers bloom in the fall and have pointy tips. The seeds disperse by sticking to passing wildlife and people.

Fact Sheet: Wavyleaf Basketgrass

Photo credit: Kerrie L. Kyde, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Bugwood.org

Photo Credit:  Kerrie L. Kyde, Maryland Department of Natural Resources