Description

• Megathyrsus maximus, commonly known as Guinea grass, is a tall, perennial grass in the family Poaceae. It grows in dense clumps with erect stems, long, narrow leaf blades, and large, open, branching flower heads bearing numerous small spikelets. The foliage is usually green but may develop a bluish or purplish tint. This fast-growing grass is widely used as livestock forage, but it can also spread beyond cultivation and become invasive in suitable climates.

Range

• Megathyrsus maximus is native to tropical and subtropical Africa. It has been introduced and naturalized throughout many tropical regions, including the Americas, where it is widely cultivated for pasture. It is established in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• Guinea grass grows in open, sunny environments, including pastures, roadsides, field margins, disturbed ground, and the edges of tropical woodland. It thrives in warm climates with seasonal rainfall and generally grows best in fertile, well-drained soils with adequate moisture. Once established, it can form dense stands that compete with native vegetation, particularly in disturbed habitats.