Kikuyugrass (Pennisetum clandestinum) is an extremely aggressive perennial weed of turfgrass, ornamental plantings, orchards, and noncrop areas in California. It is well adapted to warm, temperate climates such as those of the coast and inland valleys of southern and central California. Kikuyugrass was originally imported to California around 1918 as a ground cover to reduce erosion on ditchbanks. With its rapid stolon growth and thatch formation, it quickly moved from these sites and became a serious weed pest. In the past kikuyugrass was often confused with St. Augustinegrass and may have been mistakenly propagated and planted in its place.
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