Roots
Rhizomes, white, cordlike
scaly, many buds

Stem
Smooth, hollow

True Leaves
Linear, clasping auricles
Slightly hairy on top of leaf
Fringed or entire ligule

Flowers
Spike with one row of spikelets
on each side of stem

Habitat
Cultivated fields, pastures, waste areas

Note
A single plant may produce
135 metres of rhizomes per year
Complete control can be
difficult to obtain