Phyllospadix sp.
Surf-grass, Surf-Grass
Family: Zosteraceae · Type: Perennial · Native
Phyllospadix sp. (Surf-grass) is a native California perennial in the Zosteraceae family.
How to tell it apart
vs Zostera: Phyllospadix grows on wave-swept rocks; Zostera grows in muddy/sandy calm bay bottoms.; vs Vallisneria: Phyllospadix is marine on rocks in surf; Vallisneria is freshwater in calm waters.; vs Ulva: Phyllospadix has distinct narrow grass-like leaves; Ulva is broad sheet-like green algae.; vs Acrosiphonia: Phyllospadix has flat ribbon leaves; Acrosiphonia is branching thread-like green algae.; vs Cortaderia: Phyllospadix grows underwater in surf zone; Cortaderia is terrestrial grass with huge plumes.
Frequently asked questions
Is Phyllospadix sp. native to California?
Yes. Phyllospadix sp. is native to California (recorded as native).
What plant family does Phyllospadix sp. belong to?
Phyllospadix sp. is in the Zosteraceae family, genus Phyllospadix.
Related species
Other California species in the same genus, family, or bioregion.
Sources: Jepson eFlora · CalPhotos
Last updated 2026-04-14
Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, Cal-IPC, and more.