Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of coarse annual grass: Refers to a specific grass species characterized by finger-like spikes of flowers, native to Old World tropics and often a naturalized weed in other regions.
   • A hardy North American grass: Refers to a different, perennial grass species known for its attractive foliage that turns a pale bronze color in autumn.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The field was overrun with tough wire grass.
  • In the fall, the hills are covered with the beautiful bronze hue of wire grass.

Advanced Usage

• As a botanical term: Used in ecological and agricultural contexts to describe specific weedy or ornamental grass species.
  • The conservation plan aims to control invasive wire grass.

Variants and Related Words

• Wiregrass: A common alternative spelling, often used as a single word.
• Cynodon dactylon: The scientific name for a common perennial grass sometimes regionally called "wire grass" or Bermuda grass.
• Aristida stricta: The scientific name for a North American bunchgrass also known as pineland threeawn or wiregrass.

Synonyms

• Bermuda grass (for one common type)
• Couch grass
• Dog's tooth grass

Notes on Different Meanings

The term "wire grass" is applied to different grass species in different regions. The primary definitions reflect two distinct common usages: 1. A weedy, annual grass of tropical origin (Eleusine indica). 2. A perennial, native North American grass prized for its autumn color (Muhlenbergia capillaris or similar species). Context (geographic or descriptive) is usually needed to determine the specific meaning.

Noun

1. coarse annual grass having fingerlike spikes of flowers; native to Old World tropics; a naturalized weed elsewhere
2. handsome hardy North American grass with foliage turning pale bronze in autumn