Early Meadow-grass

Early Meadow-grass - Poa infirma

Description

In the field Poa infirma is a little more slender than Poa annua, but the real character that picks out plants to look at in more detail is its light green colour. Anthers provide the best diagnostic characters.

Similar Species

Poa annua

Identification difficulty
ID checklist (your specimen should have all of these features)

Anthers 0.2mm - 0.5mm, 1 - 1.5 times as long as wide, panicle branches erect/sub-erect at fruiting stage (Poa annua has larger, longer anthers and usually reflexed panicle branches at fruiting)

Recording advice

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.  Retain a specimen of this species for verification.

Habitat

Most often found growing near the sea in open, trampled grassland, on cliff-top paths, tracksides, picnic sites, lawns and car parks, and in stabilised dunes and other sandy places, but more recently has been recorded inland.

When to see it

This species may flower as early as January to April and some populations may have disappeared before most botanists are recording.

Life History

Annual.

UK Status

This species has experienced a very considerable extension of range including more inland records.

VC55 Status

New to Leicestershire and Rutland in 2019.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

No additional images available for this species.

All NatureSpot records