Definition

Noun 1. A tall, tufted, perennial grass species: Paspalum dilatatum is the scientific name for a specific type of grass that is native to tropical regions of the Americas. It is characterized by forming dense clumps (tufts), living for multiple years (perennial), and growing to a considerable height. It has been introduced to other regions, such as the southern United States, where it is now established and used for animal pasture and forage.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The field was primarily covered with Paspalum dilatatum, providing excellent forage for the cattle.
  • Farmers in the region often plant Paspalum dilatatum because of its resilience and high nutritional value for livestock.
  • As an invasive species in some areas, Paspalum dilatatum can outcompete native grasses.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical or agricultural contexts: The term is used precisely to identify this specific species within the genus . It is a formal, scientific name.
  • The study compared the drought tolerance of Paspalum dilatatum to that of Bermuda grass.

Variants and Related Words

• Dallis grass: This is the most common common name for .
• Paspalum: This is the genus name, referring to a large group of grass species to which belongs.
• Forage grass: A general term for grasses cultivated to be eaten by grazing livestock.
• Pasture grass: A general term for grasses that form pastures for animals.

Synonyms

• Dallis grass (common name)
• Knotgrass (a less specific common name that can refer to other species)

Notes on Meaning

This word has a single, specific meaning as a scientific (Latin) botanical name for a particular plant species. Its usage is almost entirely technical, found in agriculture, botany, ecology, and land management. It does not have idiomatic or phrasal verb uses.

Noun

1. tall tufted perennial tropical American grass naturalized as pasture and forage grass in southern United States