Outdoors
Grazing Oklahoma – Threeawns
By Rob Cook
Characteristics: Several threeawn species grow in Oklahoma and are commonly known as tickle grass or wiregrass. Threeawns are native, warm-season, annual or perennial grasses. Mature height is about 6 to 20 inches tall. The leaves are flat, slender, up to ¼ inch wide but usually much narrower and 2 to 8 inches long. The seedhead is a panicle with many seeds. Three awns extend above each individual seed.
Area of Importance: Threeawn species grow across Oklahoma and are adapted to many types of soils. Threeawns, especially annual species, are commonly found in disturbed areas and go-back rangelands. They provide ground cover to prevent soil erosion and help shade the soil surface.
To learn more about threeawns, pick up the June issue of OKFR!