The leaves are rolled in the bud, The ligule is short and membranous, auricles are long and clasping. The upper surface of the leaf blade is rough. Quackgrass produces long sharp tipped aggressive rhizomes. Quackgrass remains green year round. The seedhead of quackgrass is a spike containing two rows of spikelets.
Awns are usually present.
Quackgrass is found throughout the Northern United States. Quackgrass can be introduced into turf areas with the planting of ornamental trees and shrubs. Quackgrass is a problem in nursery areas. Once introduced into turf areas, quackgrass spreads by aggressive rhizomes. Quackgrass is less aggressive in hot temperatures.