This weed from the Mediterranean region is widespread in subtropical to mid-temperate regions of North America. It was first reported from Ky. in 1893 (Pr). In 1914 Gm noted: "not as common in Kentucky as it is farther south, but is likely to be encountered anywhere in small quantities... Its known value as a forage plant is decidedly in its favor..." It has become abundant locally along roads and in farmland that is not regularly mowed or grazed. In general it can be distinguished from other common tall warm-season grasses by its relative broad leaf blades (8-40 mm), and the whitish stripe down the middle of the upper surface; ligules are 2-6 mm long, membranous and conspicuously ciliate. Leaves have a distinctive whitish zone along the midvein.