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Arizona
Range Grasses Back to the Table of Contents
Growth habit: A leafy perennial bunchgrass 1 to
2 feet tall.
Occurrence Most common in the northern part of the state at elevations
of 3,500 to 6,500 feet in Apache, Navajo, Coconino, Mohave, Yavapai,
and Pima counties. Although well adapted to sandy soils Indian ricegrass
is by no means restricted to such areas. It frequently grows associated
with shadscale and winterfat and is able to withstand moderate amounts
of alkali. Forage Value This grass is highly palatable to all classes of livestock. It cures exceptionally well and is valued as a winter forage species. The seeds, which stay on the plant, are large and high in protein. They are responsible to a considerable degree for the value of the grass as a winter forage.
Indian ricegrass should be lightly grazed during the spring
to give the nutritious seeds a chance to develop. If the plants are
grazed close early in the season, seed production as well as vigor of
the plants will be reduced. Areas supporting an abundance of this grass are often
best used by reserving for winter use. Grazing during this season alone,
when the plants are dormant, will tend to maintain these ranges in top
condition.
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Cooperative
Extension,College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, The University of
Arizona