Notice of release of Maverick germplasm pink pappusgrass: Selected class of natural germplasm

A selected germplasm of pink pappusgrass (Pappophorum bicolor Fourn. [Poaceae]) has been released for rangeland seeding, highway rights-of-way revegetation, and wildlife habitat restoration plantings in south Texas. Maverick Germplasm pink pappusgrass is a blend of 7 accessions selected from an evaluation at multiple sites in the intended area of use. Selections were made based on multi-year evaluation of plant characteristics and germination tests of seed collected from each location. Following selection, components of the germplasm were increased in isolation and blended following harvest to ensure seed was included from each of the selected accessions. Accessions included in the blend originate from 7 different counties and distinct soil types. This germplasm represents the first commercial release of pink pappusgrass, an important component of native rangeland plant communities in south Texas.