Identification and Reproduction

Identification:

• Spring milletgrass is an annual grass that grows up to 90 cm tall. 
• Leaves connect directly the the stem and will point to a tip. 
• It produces smooth, glossy florets that are diamond-shaped. 
• Florets are straw yellow and will mature to a brown colour. The surface of the floret is covered in brown streaks. 

Reproduction:

• This grass produces by seed. Seeds are easy transported by wind and can travel with other seed crops unintentionally. 

Habitat & Ecology

• This grass commonly takes over cultivated fields, rangelands and pastures. 
• It prefers soils that remain moist, especially in the winter months. 
• Currently has not been found in Canada. It has been introduced to Idaho. 

Impacts

Social: 

• Contaminant of winter wheat crops. 
• Degrades pastures and reduces crop yields. 

Management

Prevention is a high priority for this plant. 

• Use clean, high-quality seed mixtures that are certified.
• Avoid transporting unknown soil or plant material.  
• Ensure that equipment, vehicles and tools are clean and free of debris.  
• Contact your local Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) if you think you have seen this plant. 

Resources

Check out the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's datasheet on Milium vernale (Spring milletgrass). 

Header photo (ramazan_murtazaliev).