Couch grass is a robust perennial and can reach a height of 80 cm (32 in). It has a long, creeping rhizome, thin leaves, and upright spikes with two rows of green flowers.
Pliny (23–79 CE) and Dioscorides (40–90 CE) both advocated couch grass roots for kidney stones and impaired urine flow in classical times. The herbalist John Gerard stated in 1597 that "Couch grasse be an unwelcome guest to fields and gardens, yet his physicke virtues do recompense those hurts; for it openeth the stopping of the liver and reins (ureters) without heat." The root has been roasted and ground as a replacement for coffee and bread during famines.
It can be found in Australia, northern Asia, the Americas, and Europe. Weeds like couch grass spread quickly. It is harvested all year long.
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