Leaf sheaths are flattened, smooth, and even on seedlings often are distinctly white to silver at the base. The ligule is 1-2 mm long, fringed, uneven, and membranous. Sheaths are flattened, whitish at the base, and sparsely hairy in the collar region. Two rows of flattened spikelets occur along each spike. Flattened stems with a distinctive white or silver center.
Plants often appear compressed to the soil, as if they have been repeatedly stepped on.
Additionally, the distinctive white center of goosegrass distinguishes it from most other grass weeds.