What Is Blackjack Grass?

Blackjack grass (Briza maxima) is a perennial grass that is native to Europe, Asia and Africa. It is also found in North America, where it is often called “clover”.

Blackjack grass has a wide range of uses, including as a forage grass for livestock, as a soil stabilizer and as a ornamental grass.

Blackjack grass is a cool-season grass that grows best in temperate climates. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.

Blackjack grass is tolerant of drought and salt. It does not tolerate heavy traffic or compacted soils.

Blackjack grass is a bunchgrass that forms clumps of erect, leafy stems. The leaves are green to blue-green in color and are 2-8 inches long.

The flowers are small and inconspicuous. The seeds are black and glossy, and they are produced in spikes that can be up to 12 inches long.

Blackjack grass is adapted to a wide range of soil types but prefers well-drained soils. It can be found growing in pastures, meadows, roadsides and waste areas.

Blackjack grass is tolerant of drought and salt but does not tolerate heavy traffic or compacted soils.

Blackjack grass has a number of uses. It is often used as a forage grass for livestock, as it is high in protein and palatable to animals.

Blackjack grass can also be used for soil stabilization, particularly on slopes or in areas subject to erosion. Additionally, blackjack grass is sometimes used as an ornamental grass in landscaping.