Family: Poaceae

Cenchrus ciliaris (buffelgrass, Laredo buffelgrass) is a perennial grass native to Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. It grows in clumps up to 3 feet tall, with narrow leaves and bristly seed heads. Widely naturalized, it is valued for palatable livestock forage and can provide grazing during drought, especially in dryland areas. Its deep roots make it drought-tolerant and useful for soil stabilization.

Although prized for grazing, buffelgrass is invasive and can crowd out native plants, reducing biodiversity. Its dense, dry growth also fuels wildfires. Because it is already widespread, management focuses on protecting native ecosystems, restoring habitats, and reducing fire risk.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Widely naturalized
  
• Environmental weed (reduces biodiversity)
  
• Other Cenchrus species have become invasive
  
• Potentially allelopathic
  
• Possibly allergenic to susceptible people
  
• Increases fire risk in natural environment
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Forms dense mats and ground cover
  
• Produces seeds apomictically
  
• Able to reach maturity in one growing season
  
• Seeds dispersed by wind, through attachment to animals and equipment and intentionally by people
  
• Seeds forms a persistent seed bank
  
• Tolerates grazing, mowing and fire

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Palatable to grazing animals
  
• Relatively Shade-intolerant
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control