Rattlesnake Grass (Briza maxima L.), other wise known as Big quakinggrass, is now a common non-native grass species scattered throughout California grassland habitats. It is mostly found in coastal grasslands and coastal woodlands, but is found inland in many counties including Mendocino. The species is quite common here at the UC-Hopland Research & Extension Center. In some sites it can form dense, nearly pure stands that displace other species, but this is unusual. Typically it is in a mixed community with other grasses and forbs. The common names are derived from 1) the visual similarity to rattlesnake rattles, and 2) the "quaking" sound of the dry seeds head when blown by the wind. The panicles are sometimes collected and dried to display in dry bouquets.
