Similar Species for: Microstegium vimineum (Trin.) A. Camus
Leersia virginica
Cutgrass or Whitegrass, Leersia virginica, is a native grass that may be confused with Microstegium. Cutgrass is a perennial with flat, compressed seedheads and has distinctly longer leaves (6.0 in. [1.5 dm]) and shorter spikelets (1.0-1.2 in. [2.5-3 cm]) than Japanese stiltgrass.
Muhlenbergia schreberi
Nimblewill, Muhlenbergia schreberi, another native grass, has short broad leaves like Microstegium but is distinguish by its branching seed heads.
Persicaria maculosa
Spotted Lady’s Thumb or Knotweed, Persicaria maculosa [ Polygonum persicaria ], is a nonnative invasive plant (Significant Threat) also found in low lying, moist areas. It is distinguished from Microstegium by pale to dark pink flower calyx and glossy black seeds.