History in the United States

Cogon grass was introduced to the United States both accidentally and intentionally. Cogon grass was first introduced to the U.S. at Mobile, Alabama, via shipping crates that contained cogon grass as a packing material. It was also brought in and distributed by the U.S.D.A. for use as a forage grass and for soil erosion control. Cogon grass is also sold by the nursery trade as an ornamental grass, valued for its attractive foliage and hardiness.