Fingerhuthia africana inflorescence

The inflorescence of Fingerhuthia africana is compact and usually cylindrical, about 5 cm long, a spike-like panicle. In the photo it is narrowly conical. The spikelets grow solitary, up to 5,5 mm long.

Every laterally compressed spikelet has a couple of glumes or outer bracts, becoming as long as the spikelet, each glume tipped with a short awn. The glumes are keeled and have whitish marginal hairs. The lowest floret is bisexual, the others male or sterile.

The flowering season of this grass is long, lasting from spring to autumn (Van Oudtshoorn, et al, 1991; www.kyffhauser.co.za).