General: Alkali Sacaton Grass (Sporobolus airoides) is a native bunchgrass that grows in alkaline soils. The leaves are narrow, the large inflorescence is open with tiny seeds, and the leaf has a distinct, hairy collar.

Because its habitat is limited, Alkali Sacaton is an uncommon component of vegetation in the Lower Sonoran (Creosote-Bursage Flats) and Upper Sonoran (Mojave Desert Scrub) life zones. It is, however, common in alkaline meadows, so look for this species in the meadow at Calico Basin in Red Rocks NCA.

Family: Grass (Poaceae).

Plant Form: Upright, perennial bunchgrass.

Height: To about 4 feet.

Stems: Upright.

Leaves: Sheath margin glabrous to short-hairy. Collar glabrous or with few long hairs. Ligule tiny, fringed. Blade to about 15 inches, narrow.

Flowers: Inflorescence an open panicle; branches spreading.

Seeds:

Habitat: Moist, alkaline areas.

Elevation: To about 6,000 feet.

Distribution: Western North America, including Mexico.

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