BROOMSEDGE, Andropogon virginicus L. 1, stems and root system; 2, part of inflorescence; 3, single spikelet and rachis segment. Perennial, growing in small erect clumps or bunches, reddish-brown when dry. Roots densely fibrous. Stems several in a tuft, slightly flattened, 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 cm) tall, upper part branched. Leaves 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) long, flat or folded, very hairy on upper surface where attached to stem. Panicle consists of 2 to 4 fingerlike clusters, each 3/4 to 1-1/2 inches (1.9 to 3.8 cm) long, bearing tufts of conspicuous white hairs, enclosed by reddish-brown leaves. Seeds about 1/8 inch (3 mm) long, brown, bearded. Found mostly on poor run-down pastures and open meadows. A serious problem in pastures on marginal lands, it disappears under fertilization and adequate grazing.