In 2019, an interdisciplinary team of experts from all continents (except for Antarctica) coauthored a report published in the journal Ecology supporting Spartina as a genus.

[6] The section name Spartina is derived from σπαρτίνη (spartínē), the Greek word for a cord made from Spanish broom (Spartium junceum).

Some species of the section Spartina are considered as ecosystem engineers that can strongly influence the physical and biological environment.

[8][9] This is particularly important in areas where invasive Spartina species significantly alter their new environment, with impacts to native plants and animals.

[10][14] Species of the section Spartina have been planted to reclaim estuarine areas for farming, to supply fodder for livestock, and to prevent erosion.