Chloris is a widespread genus of grasses in the family Poaceae (order Poales), commonly known as windmill grass or finger grass. The genus is monophyletic and encompasses 53 accepted species distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with a particular concentration in the Southern Hemisphere.
Plants in this genus are typically compact, generally growing to less than 0.5 m in height. They are recognizable by their distinctive inflorescences, which are shaped like umbels with several radiating plumes lined with rows of spikelets — a form that gives rise to the common name "windmill grass." A defining morphological feature of the genus is the presence of sterile florets positioned above the lowest fertile ones, with spikes usually numbering 4–10.
The genus name honors Chloris, a figure from Greek mythology associated with flowers and the arrival of spring. The genus has a broad global footprint, thriving in open, disturbed, and seasonally dry habitats across warm-temperate, tropical, and subtropical zones.
Etymology
The genus Chloris was named for Chloris, a figure from Greek mythology associated with flowers and the coming of spring. The name itself derives from the Greek χλωρός (chlōrós), meaning "pale green" or "greenish-yellow."
Distribution
Chloris is distributed worldwide but is most diverse in tropical and subtropical regions, with the greatest representation in the Southern Hemisphere. In India alone, 11 species are known, including two endemics (Chloris wightiana and Chloris bournei).
Taxonomy Notes
Chloris is a monophyletic genus within the grass family Poaceae (tribe Cynodonteae, order Poales). The genus currently comprises 53 accepted species. Its closest relatives are other members of the subfamily Chloridoideae, which are characteristically adapted to warm, seasonally dry environments.
