Explore Illinois grasses with clear, practical guidance .
This comprehensive reference explains why grasses matter to the state’s economy and landscapes, and it shows how to identify the many Illinois species with careful descriptions and practical illustrations.
This edition walks readers through the structure of grasses, life cycles, and how different types grow—from bunch grasses to creeping sod builders. It connects taxonomy to field observations, helping hobbyists, students, and professionals recognize species in fields, pastures, and urban spaces.
- How to tell grasses from sedges and other plants using simple, visual cues
- Key differences between annuals and perennials, including lawn and pasture species
- Guidance on using illustrations to identify specimens in the field
- Context about Illinois’ grass diversity and historical collecting efforts
Ideal for naturalists, students, and anyone curious about Illinois’ grasses and their role in landscapes and agriculture.