About Eriochloa contracta Hitchc.
Eriochloa contracta Hitchc. is a species of grass commonly called prairie cupgrass. It is native to the central United States, and has become naturalized in regions east and west of its native range. In these naturalized areas, it often grows as a weed, particularly in moist locations. This is an annual grass; when it grows erect it can reach one meter in height, but it may also bend over, rooting wherever stem nodes come into contact with the ground. Its inflorescence can grow up to 20 centimeters long, and is composed of multiple branches that extend outward to the sides. These branches are lined with purplish spikelets that are a few millimeters in length. Along with several other grass species, prairie cupgrass can cause photosensitivity in humans.
