Mombasa Grass (Panicum maximum)

FamilyPoaceae
Scientific namePanicum maximum
Common name (English)Mombasa Grass
Common name (Malay)/
Identified asIntroduced plant on Project M.A.R.S.’s land

Panicum maximum, commonly known as mombasa grass, is a perennial tropical grass in the Poaceae family. Native to Africa, it is widely cultivated across tropical and subtropical regions for livestock forage, soil improvement, and erosion control. The tall, tufted grass produces nutrient-rich leaves and stems that are highly palatable to grazing animals. Traditionally, it has also been used in agroforestry systems, as mulch, and for land rehabilitation. With its agricultural, ecological, and practical significance, Panicum maximum remains an important species in tropical pasture management and sustainable farming systems.