The Biology of Canadian Weeds. 141. Setaria faberi Herrm.

Abstract

known as giant foxtail, is an annual graminaceous weed that is native to eastern China, has colonized eastern North America and is expanding its range westward. This species is primarily self-pollinated and the only mechanism of reproduction is by seed. Adult plants may reach 2 m in height and produce over 2000 seeds per panicle. Seeds may possess non-deep physiological dormancy when freshly produced, and can form small persistent seed banks. If not controlled, S. faberi populations can cause severe yield reductions in corn and soybean crops. Several herbicides are available to provide chemical control; however, resistance to some modes of action, (ALS, ACCase, and Photosystem II) have been identified in Canada and the United States. Leaves and seeds of this species provide a food source to several species of mammals, birds, and insects.

Evolutionary effects of nitrogen are not easily predicted from ecological responses

“…Setaria faberi is an annual grass native to eastern Asia (Wang et al, 1995 ) that has spread across the globe due to human activity. This species has become naturalized in eastern North America following its introduction as a contaminant in imported grains in the 1920s (Nurse et al, 2009 ). Setaria faberi is an early‐successional species that can be found in a wide range of habitats including crops, roadsides, gardens, and old fields (Nurse et al, 2009 ).…”

“…This species has become naturalized in eastern North America following its introduction as a contaminant in imported grains in the 1920s (Nurse et al, 2009 ). Setaria faberi is an early‐successional species that can be found in a wide range of habitats including crops, roadsides, gardens, and old fields (Nurse et al, 2009 ). Plants can reach 2.5 m in height, with either single stems or multiple stems branching from the base (Nurse et al, 2009 ).…”

“…Setaria faberi is an early‐successional species that can be found in a wide range of habitats including crops, roadsides, gardens, and old fields (Nurse et al, 2009 ). Plants can reach 2.5 m in height, with either single stems or multiple stems branching from the base (Nurse et al, 2009 ). Each plant typically produces one long spike‐like panicle at the top of each stem but can sometimes produce additional smaller panicles along the stem (M. Hammond, personal observation).…”