Japanese Stiltgrass

Japanese Stiltgrass at Forbes Rock

NPS Photo

Japanese Stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum) is an annual grass that is native to many parts of Asia from Turkey in the west to Japan in the east.

Annual Growth Rate: 1-2 ft.
Location (Throughout Park):

• Forest
• Trailside
• Stream banks
• Forbes Rock on Culp's Hill

Impact:

• Aggressive growth diminishes native biodiversity.
• Alteration of soil chemistry
• Creates inhospitable environment for native plant species.
• Alteration of soil microbial communities.
• Accelerates carbon cycle, depleting below-ground carbon pools.
• A toxic decoy plant that affects insects and some butterflies who rely on native plants for their food and lifecycle.

Management:

Park biologists are monitoring existing locations and are addressing new growth areas as they are detected. They are regularly studying more effective methods for management of Stiltgrass.

What Can You Do?

As a devoted visitor to Gettysburg National Military Park, you can see the direct impact the Japanese Stiltgrass is having on your park. During the warm weather months, we host a series of Volunteer Work Days. Sign up for one or all of these to lend a hand! You have the opportunity to aid our staff to combat this invading species and perhaps slow or halt their march across our fields, our hills, our stone walls, our fences, or even around our monuments.

• Report all sightings of Stiltgrass.
• For small infestations, pulling out the plants by hand is ideal.

 

Volunteer

How to Help

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