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Description
Brachypodium Kawakamii, commonly known as Kawakami’s false brome, is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This species is native to Taiwan and was first discovered by the Japanese botanist Yosio Kawakami in 1922. Brachypodium Kawakamii is a popular ornamental grass that is grown for its attractive foliage and compact size, making it a great addition to rock gardens, borders, and containers. This grass has a clumping growth habit and can reach a height of up to 30cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Brachypodium |
Appearance
The leaves of Brachypodium Kawakamii are narrow and long, measuring about 25cm in length and 3mm in width. The foliage is bright green in color and has a glossy texture, giving it an attractive appearance. The stems of this grass are thin and erect, with a reddish-brown color. During the summer months, Brachypodium Kawakamii produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are held on tall stems above the foliage. The flowers are followed by seed heads that are green in color and turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
Brachypodium Kawakamii is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for this grass:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months, to keep the soil moist.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Brachypodium Kawakamii in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This grass prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Brachypodium Kawakamii is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Brachypodium Kawakamii is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. In addition, watch out for slugs and snails, which may feed on the foliage of this grass.
Habitat
Brachypodium Kawakamii is native to Taiwan and can be found growing in rocky areas, open woodlands, and grassy slopes. This grass is well-adapted to a range of soil types and can tolerate drought and heat.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Brachypodium Kawakamii a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Brachypodium Kawakamii is a great plant for rock gardens because of its compact size and attractive foliage.
Q: What is the best time to plant Brachypodium Kawakamii?
A: The best time to plant Brachypodium Kawakamii is in the spring or fall when the weather is cool and moist.
Q: Does Brachypodium Kawakamii require pruning?
A: No, Brachypodium Kawakamii does not require pruning. However, you can remove any dead or damaged foliage to keep the plant looking neat and tidy.
Q: How often should I fertilize Brachypodium Kawakamii?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Brachypodium Distachyon
- Brachypodium Pinnatum
- Brachypodium Sylvestre
References
- “Brachypodium kawakamii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 16, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292994&isprofile=0&basic=brachypodium%20kawakamii.
- “Brachypodium kawakamii.” Plantwise Knowledge Bank. Accessed September 16, 2021. https://www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/23824.
- “Brachypodium kawakamii.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 16, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/77892/Brachypodium-kawakamii/Details.
