Japanese Stiltgrass
Microstegium vimineum
non-native
Other Names:
Packing grass, Nepalese browntop
Japanese Stiltgrass is an aggressive invasive plant that was accidentally introduced into the United States in 1919 when it was used as packing material in shipments of porcelain from China to Tennessee. It has spread throughout the Southeastern United States and is now found in at least 26 states, including Virginia. It is commonly seen along roads and in floodplains and other disturbed areas, but it also will invade undisturbed habitats. Japanese Stiltgrass can reduce the growth and flowering of native species, suppress native plant communities, alter and suppress insect communities, slow plant succession, and alter nutrient cycling.
Identification Tools
Illinois Wildflowers
EnoCitizenScience
New England Wild Flower Society
Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States
Ranges
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