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Description
Bouteloua Rigidiseta is a perennial grass species native to the western United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is known by several common names including Texas grama, stiff grama, and eyelash grass. It typically grows in dry, rocky soils and is well adapted to drought conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Bouteloua |
Appearance
Bouteloua Rigidiseta typically grows to a height of 8-20 inches and has a clumping growth habit. Its leaves are narrow and folded, with a bluish-green color, and can grow up to 8 inches in length. Its inflorescence is a spike-like panicle that can range in color from green to purplish-brown. The spikelets are arranged in two rows and have long, hair-like awns that give the plant its common name, eyelash grass.
Care Guide
Bouteloua Rigidiseta is a low-maintenance grass species that is well adapted to dry conditions. It can be grown in a variety of soil types and does best in well-draining soils. The following care guide can help ensure healthy growth:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing frequency during periods of drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
- Soil: Well-draining soils are best for Bouteloua Rigidiseta. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils.
- Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for this plant, although it can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Bouteloua Rigidiseta is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bouteloua Rigidiseta is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Overwatering can also lead to fungal diseases.
Habitat
Bouteloua Rigidiseta is native to the western United States and northern Mexico, where it can be found in dry, rocky soils. It is a common component of grassland and savanna habitats and can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Bouteloua Rigidiseta be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow Bouteloua Rigidiseta in containers, it is not recommended. The plant prefers to grow in the ground and can become root-bound in containers, which can lead to stunted growth.
Q: How often should Bouteloua Rigidiseta be fertilized?
A: Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Q: Is Bouteloua Rigidiseta drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Bouteloua Rigidiseta is well adapted to drought conditions and can survive with minimal watering.
Q: How tall can Bouteloua Rigidiseta grow?
A: Bouteloua Rigidiseta typically grows to a height of 8-20 inches.
Related Plants
- Bouteloua Gracilis
- Bouteloua Hirsuta
- Bouteloua Curtipendula
References
- “Bouteloua Rigidiseta.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=BORI.
- “Bouteloua Rigidiseta.” USDA Plants Database, United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BORI.
