Grass, one of the most ancient and essential plant families on Earth, has played a crucial role in shaping ecosystems, human civilization, and agriculture for millions of years. The Poaceae family, which includes wheat, rice, corn, and countless wild grasses, first emerged around 66 million years ago during the late Cretaceous period, coinciding with the extinction of the dinosaurs. As Earth's climate changed and vast grasslands replaced forests, grasses adapted to a variety of environments, from the expansive savannas of Africa to the rolling prairies of North America. Early humans relied on wild grasses for sustenance, eventually domesticating species like barley and wheat in the Fertile Crescent around 10,000 years ago, marking the beginning of agriculture. The cultivation of grasses revolutionized human society, enabling permanent settlements, population growth, and the development of civilizations. Beyond agriculture, grasses have played a significant role in landscaping, soil stabilization, and even cultural symbolism, from the sacred fields of rice in Asia to the meticulously maintained lawns of European estates. Today, grasses cover nearly 40% of the Earth's land surface and continue to be a foundation for life, providing food, shelter, and oxygen while playing a key role in combating erosion and climate change. Whether in the form of a simple backyard lawn or the golden fields of wheat that feed billions, grass remains one of the most important and resilient plant species in history.
