Sears’ Goatgrass: A Mysterious Member of the Wild Wheat Family
If you’ve stumbled across the name Sears’ goatgrass (Aegilops searsii) in your plant research, you’re likely wondering what exactly this grass is and whether it belongs in your garden. Well, you’re not alone in your curiosity—this particular species is something of an enigma in the plant world.
What is Sears’ Goatgrass?
Sears’ goatgrass belongs to the genus Aegilops, which is part of the grass family (Poaceae). This group consists of wild wheat grasses that are related to the wheat we use for bread and pasta. As a graminoid, Aegilops searsii has the characteristic grass-like appearance with narrow leaves and seed heads typical of its family.
The Mystery of Its Origins
Here’s where things get interesting (and a bit frustrating for us plant enthusiasts): reliable information about Aegilops searsii’s native range and natural habitat is remarkably scarce. Most members of the Aegilops genus hail from the Mediterranean region and parts of western Asia, but the specific geographic distribution of this species remains unclear in available botanical literature.
Should You Grow Sears’ Goatgrass?
Given the limited information available about this species, it’s difficult to make a strong recommendation either way. Here’s what we do know and what you should consider:
- The lack of readily available information suggests this isn’t a commonly cultivated ornamental grass
- Without clear native status information, it’s hard to determine if it would be appropriate for native plant gardens
- No specific invasive or noxious status has been documented, but the Aegilops genus does include some species that can be weedy
- Growing conditions, hardiness zones, and care requirements are not well-documented for home gardeners
Consider Well-Known Alternatives
If you’re interested in ornamental grasses or native plants, you might want to consider better-documented alternatives that offer similar aesthetic appeal:
- For Mediterranean-style gardens: fountain grass, feather reed grass, or blue oat grass
- For native plant enthusiasts: research native grasses specific to your region
- For wildlife gardens: choose native bunch grasses that provide documented benefits to local wildlife
The Bottom Line
While Sears’ goatgrass might sound intriguing, the lack of available growing information and unclear provenance make it a challenging choice for most gardeners. Sometimes the most responsible approach is to stick with well-understood plants that have proven garden performance and clear environmental benefits.
If you’re determined to explore unusual grasses, consider reaching out to botanical gardens, university extension services, or specialized grass societies who might have more detailed information about this elusive species.
