EMILY de CAMP HERBARIUM

COMMON NAME: Marsh Spike Grass
OTHER COMMON NAME(S): Seashore Salt Grass, Marsh Salt Grass, Salt Grass
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Distichlis spicata
FAMILY: Poaceae
COMMUNITY: Tidal Marsh
STATUS: Native
LIFESPAN: Perennial
HEIGHT: 9 to 24 inches
FLOWERTING TIME: Mid-August to mid October
FRUITING TIME: Late August to mid October
DISTRIBUTION: Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Texas, to Mexico ~ Throughout coastal strip in New Jersey on salt marshes
IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Inflorescence 1.5 to 3 inches long ~ Leaves short and narrow, branching on opposite sides of the stalk ~ Form dense mats on salt marsh ~ Male and female flowers are found on separate plants ~ Rhizomes creeping, scale covered rhizomes

GENERAL INFORMATION: Marsh Spike Grass is found on relatively high ground on the salt marsh in regions that are flooded at times of full and new moon tides and storm tides. Like other plants found on the tidal marsh, Marsh Spike Grass has salt glands on the leaf through which it excretes excess salt.

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails. This information is presented for educational purposes.