Tough, clumped summer annual, generally with a "whitish to silverfish" coloration at the center of the plant. Leaf blade smooth on both surfaces, occasionally a few hairs near the base. Visible, short toothed, membranous ligule at base of leaf blade. Spikelets in two rows on two to 13 fingers. Frequently a single finger below the terminal cluster of fingers. Reproduces by seed. Found throughout the temperate and warm parts of the United States and throughout the warm temperate, subtropical and tropical areas of the world.