Description

• Dactyloctenium aegyptium, commonly known as crowfoot grass or Egyptian crowfoot grass, is an annual or short-lived perennial grass in the family Poaceae. It has spreading or creeping stems that may root at the nodes, flat leaves, and distinctive seed heads with several finger-like spikes radiating from a central point, resembling a bird’s foot. The spikes bear small, tightly packed spikelets and become straw-coloured as they mature. It can grow rapidly and is often considered a weed in cultivated and disturbed areas.

Range

• Dactyloctenium aegyptium is native to Africa and parts of the Middle East and Asia. It has spread widely throughout tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including the Americas. It is established in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• Crowfoot grass commonly grows in sunny, open environments, including sandy beaches, roadsides, paths, lawns, agricultural fields, and disturbed ground. It tolerates heat, drought, compacted soils, and some salinity, allowing it to thrive in coastal and urban habitats. It often grows in bare or sparsely vegetated areas where its seeds can readily germinate.