It spreads by rhizomes to form a loose cover. It spreads rapidly by underground stems to form erosion-resistant cover. It traps windblown sand to build dunes. Planting clumps of grass 12 to 18 inches apart will provide cover in I to 2 years. It spreads by stout underground stems.
Surface stems have sharp spines.
Dark-green leaves turn bright orange in the fall. White, pink or purple flowers blossom most of the summer, and red fruit appears in the fall. It provides food and cover for songbirds.