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The term 'low panicums' refers to at least 16 closely related grass species in Florida. These species may also be referred to as low panicgrasses. They are perennial grasses that are often among the first plants that develop on sites disturbed by mechanical operations such as roller chopping or bedding. Low panicums can be found throughout Florida and the rest of the United States. As the seasons change, low panicums change their form. The winter growth form is called low rosette, where broad, short leaves grow close to the ground. In spring and summer, these low leaves yield new growth in the form of leaves and shoots with seedheads to create a more leafy form by the end of summer. The fall growth form becomes denser and more compact. Due to their wide distribution, low panicums provide a plentiful and important food source for ground-feeding songbirds, gamebirds, and small mammals. The leaves remain green even throughout the winter, providing wild turkey and white-tailed deer with a winter food source. |
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