Inland Wood Oats

Inland Wood Oats

Chasmanthium latifolium

Least Concern

Quick Facts

Kingdom: Plantae
Abundance: Common
Habitat: Forest, Wetland
Active Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall

This distinct, perennial grass goes by many common names including “Fish-on-a-pole”. It bears large, drooping, oat-like flower spikelets from slender, arching branches. It is very often found in wetlands along rivers and creeks as well as shady, moist forests. In the fall it’s seed heads are striking and can be seen swaying in the breeze.

Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Tracheophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Poales
Family: Poaceae
Genus: Chasmanthium
Species: Chasmanthium latifolium

Scientific Name

Chasmanthium latifolium
Plant Type
Grass
Foliage
Deciduous

Ecological Role

Seeds eaten by small mammals and granivorous birds. Leaves provide graze for mammals. Stems and leaves used as nesting material by birds. It is also the larval host for the Pepper & salt skipper butterfly, Bell's road side skipper butterfly, and Bronzed roadside skipper butterfly. It is also used to prevent erosion.

Active Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Habitat Types

Forest
Wetland

Geographic Distribution

Native to the central and eastern United States, Manitoba, and northeastern Mexico; it grows as far north as Pennsylvania and Michigan, where it is a threatened species.

Local Abundance

Common

Conservation Status

Least Concern

This species is widespread and abundant. No immediate threat to survival.

Threats & Impacts

Negatively impacted by invasive species and is at risk due to overuse of herbicides like glyphosate

How You Can Help

  • Report sightings to contribute to population monitoring
  • Support habitat conservation efforts
  • Follow guidelines when observing wildlife
No field notes or observations available for this species.

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