In The Garden: Smooth cordgrass is habitat building species
Also known as Spartina alterniflora, smooth cordgrass is a perennial deciduous grass found in the intertidal wetland of estuarine salt marshes. It is fine textured with wiry leaves that form a fountain spray pattern. The surface of the grass is dark green, with the lower surfaces light green in color. The saltwater-loving species of grass can be seen growing throughout Florida as a native species. The plant grows from 3-7 feet in height and may submerge during high tide.
It is a habitat building species, with the ability to create land masses for oysters, mollusks and other species to latch on to. This, in turn, brings in the redfish and other important fish species that Florida is widely known for. The species of native grass is also very important in the stabilization of sand dunes and levees found on barrier islands and beaches. The sand dunes, in turn, provide habitat for nesting birds that need protection from human and natural interference. The periwinkle snail is another native species to South Florida that relies on the habit created by spartina cordgrass to escape its predators.
This species of ornamental grass creates a unique texture and grouping patterns to a Florida garden. It grows in large clumps and is often used as a specimen species or border plant. It works very well along edges of ponds and water features. Due to its native range being Florida, it has a high tolerance to full light, high salt tolerance and has a medium tolerance to moisture. During the winter and spring months, the grass becomes a fair grazing quality for cattle.
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