Description:
Spartina densiflora is a perennial salt tolerant C4 grass that grows erect in dense, caespitose (tufted) clumps. Leaf blades are narrow, long and inrolled. The blades are tough, grayish in color, and 1/4-1/3 an inch in width. The Stems(culms) range from 27-150 cm in height. The Inflorescence is a 6-30 cm long with dense, compact colorless flowers. S. densiflora blooms from April through July. The plant inhabits the upper intertidal zone near the mean high water mark, or just below it on open mud (Daehler and Strong 1996). Unlike other introduced Spartina species, S. densiflora does not produce rhizomes (Pfauth and Sytsma 1998).

• Mechanical: Spartina seedlings can be pulled out effectively but care must be taken to remove both shoots and roots. Repeated pulling is thought to eventually kill small infestations However, pulling or digging established clones is difficult and largely ineffectual (Spartina Task Force 1994).
• Biological: None known at this time for Spartina densiflora.
• Herbicide: Rodeo™ (glyphosate) is the only herbicide presently labeled for use on Spartina in Washington. Most efficacy studies with Rodeo™ have been conducted with S. alterniflora with control results ranging 100 percent (Crockett 1991) to 0 percent (Balthuis and Scott 1993). In most cases, Spartina is mowed first, then Rodeo™ is applied to re-growth. Research is currently being conducted on the use of Arsenal to control Spartina infestations. Currently Arsenal is not federally registered for aquatics but will hopefully be available for the 2004 season (WSDA, Report to the Legislature 2001).Refer to the State Noxious Weed Control Board site

For More Information:
Detailed information about Dense-Flowered Cordgrass is available at the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board Web Site.