Glyceria canadensis Manna Grass, Rattlesnake Grass
General
A tall perennial bunch grass. This grass can spread rhizomatically and occasionally forms colonies. One of the common names for Glyceria canadensis is "Rattlesnake Grass", referring to the flowers and seeds, which resemble a rattlesnake's tail while still on the plant. Will grow in wet meadows, shore edges, and in shallow water. Glyceria canadensis provides excellent food and cover for wildlife.
Plant Description
Reaching up to 5' or 6' tall. Alternate leaves, long and thin, grow at regular intervals along the stem. Flowers/seed heads grow on drooping inflorescences.
Height (ft)
to 5'+
Soil moisture
Wet
Soil Types
Fertile, average soils
Wetland indicator
OBL
Shade tolerance
Intolerant, Full Sun
Bloom color
Green
Bloom period
Summer
Drought tolerance
Low
Salinity tolerance
None
Range
Northeastern United States from Maine to Pennsylvania and Northeast Ohio. Some populations in the Appalachians along the Virginia/West Virginia border, northern Indiana, northeastern Minnesota, and throughout Michigan and Wisconsin.