Longspike Tridens (Tridens Strictus)

Longspike Tridens

Features and Characteristics

Tridens strictus, commonly called longspike tridens, is a densely tufted, Missouri native grass which occurs in both moist and dry soils on open ground, prairies, fields, waste areas, ditches and roadsides in the far southern part of the State. Typically grows 3-4′ tall. Thin blades (3/8″ wide). Brownish to rose-purplish flowers appear in mid-July in slender, dense, spike-like inflorescences (4-12″ long) which persist well into October. Common name refers to the spike-like panicles which easily distinguish this grass from Tridens flavus which has loose, wide-branching panicles.

Specific epithet means erect or upright.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates wide range soils including heavy clay. Tolerates drought. Cut to the ground in late winter before new growth appears. May self-seed in optimum growing conditions.

Longspike Tridens (Tridens Strictus) Requirements

Hardiness zone	5 - 9
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Prairies, meadows, native plant gardens, wild or naturalized areas. Other than the purple-tinged flower spikes, this somewhat weedy grass has very little ornamental value and is not usually considered appropriate for borders or other formal perennial plantings.

Longspike Tridens (Tridens Strictus) Details

Common name	Longspike Tridens
Botanical name	Tridens Strictus
Plant type	Ornamental Grass
Family	Poaceae
Hardiness zone	5 - 9
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Brown Tinged With Purple
Flowering period	July - Oc- Ber
Height	2 - 4 Ft.
Width	1.50 To 2.50 Feet