Tall Manna Grass

(Glyceria maxima)

Semi-aquatic, perennial grass with unbranched stems that get up to 8’ tall. Reddish tint on the lower parts of the stems.

Other names for this plant include:

• Common names: reed sweetgrass, reed manna grass, English water grass
• Scientific names: G. aquatica; G. spectabilis; Molinia maxima; Panicularia aquatica

Ecological threat:

• Tall manna grass invades wetlands, including swamps, lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, creeks, ditches and wet pastures, where it forms monospecific stands that are capable of crowding out native vegetation.
• It degrades wetland habitats because it is not suitable for nesting and is a poor food source for wildlife.
• Tall manna grass has been sold as an ornamental in a variegated variety.
• Young shoots can cause cyanide poisoning in cattle if used as forage.