BES-TEX Weed ID Guide · Grassy Weeds
Echinochloa colona
Common Name
Jungle Rice
Latin Name
Echinochloa colona
Family
Poaceae
Life Cycle / Type
Summer annual · Grassy weed
Jungle rice is a fast-growing summer annual grassy weed with upright to spreading growth and wide, smooth leaf blades. It resembles barnyardgrass but typically has a more compact seedhead. It commonly appears in thin turf, disturbed soil, and areas with excessive moisture or fertility.
Jungle rice germinates as soils warm in late spring and summer.
Above 65°F
Germination begins
Above 75°F
Rapid emergence and growth
Decision Question
Missed spring or late-spring pre-emergent timing
Disturbed or bare soil
Excess moisture or high fertility
A healthy, thick lawn is the best defense against weeds.