Family: Poaceae
Andropogon virginicus, commonly known as broomsedge or yellow bluestem, is a perennial bunchgrass native to the southeastern United States. It thrives in disturbed or degraded areas, often spreading aggressively in abandoned fields, pastures, and roadsides. This grass produces tall, wiry stems with a reddish to golden color that gives it a broom-like appearance, especially in the dry season. It is highly adaptable, tolerating poor soils and drought conditions, which allows it to establish and persist in a wide range of environments.
In Hawaiʻi, Andropogon virginicus is naturalized on Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island. Its ability to spread into open landscapes raises concerns about competition with native and desirable vegetation, as it can alter habitat conditions and reduce biodiversity. Once established, it is difficult to control due to its prolific seed production and tolerance of challenging site conditions. Land managers and residents should monitor for this species, particularly in disturbed or fire-prone areas, where its presence may increase both ecological impacts and wildfire risk.
High Risk Traits:
- Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
- Thrives in tropical climates
- Naturalized on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and Hawaii (Hawaiian Islands), and elsewhere
- A pasture and environmental weed
- Other Andropogon species are invasive
- Allelopathic
- Creates a fire hazard
- Tolerates many soil types
- Forms dense stands
- Reproduces by seeds
- Self-compatible
- Reaches maturity in 2-3 years
- Seeds dispersed by wind, water, externally in wool and fur as well as in clothing. May also be spread on mud on machinery
- Able to resprout after fire
Low Risk Traits:
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Palatable to grazing animals at early stages of growth (less palatable when mature)
- Shade-intolerant
- Not reported to spread vegetatively
- Herbicides may provide effective control
