This annual grass, common in subtropical areas of the Eurasian and African continents (presently almost cosmopolitan in regions with a Mediterranean climate), is present in all regions of Italy, but is more common in Central and Southern Italy. It grows in dry fields, in thickets and open garrigue vegetation, mainly on siliceous substrates, from sea level to the lower montane belt, with optimum in the Mediterranean belt. The species is sporadic in the outer belt of the Sardinian temporary ponds during the period of desiccation. The genus name was used by the ancient Greeks for a plant similar to ryegrass, the species name comes from the Greek 'karyon' (hard, woody), and 'phyllon' (leaf), indicating the stiff consistency of leaves. Flowering period: April to May.

Italian name(s): Aira cariofillea (Italia), Aira maggiore (Italia), Aira multiculme (Italia), Nebbia (Campania), Nebbia (Liguria, Mignanego), Nebbia maggiore (Italia), Pabbio (Toscana), Sciura de fen (Liguria, Bardineto).