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This is another small weedy grass that is easily overlooked. Sheathed Dropseed is very similar in appearance to Sporobolus neglectus (Small Dropseed), except that it has longer glumes and lemmas (about 4 mm. in length). In contrast, Small Dropseed has glumes and lemmas that are about 2 mm. in length and they are less slender and pointed. Both of these grass species bloom late in the year and they both produce spike-like inflorescences that are partially or totally hidden by their sheaths. Other Sporobolus spp. (Dropseed Grasses) with such inflorescences are larger perennial grasses; their narrow panicles are at least 5 cm. (2') in length. Other common names of Sporobolus vaginiflorus are Sheathed Rush Grass and Poverty Grass.