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Description
Cenchrus Clandestinus, commonly known as African foxtail grass or buffel grass, is a perennial grass that originated from Africa. It is a member of the Poaceae family and is widely used for grazing, erosion control, and as a forage crop. The grass has a deep root system which enables it to survive in drought-prone areas. It has also been introduced in other parts of the world, including Australia and the United States, where it is considered an invasive species.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Cenchrus |
Appearance
Cenchrus Clandestinus grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spreading habit. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 50cm in length and 1cm in width. The inflorescence is a cylindrical spike that measures up to 15cm in length and is covered in silky hairs which give it a fox-like appearance. The seeds are small and shiny, measuring up to 5mm in length.
Care Guide
Cenchrus Clandestinus is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you grow and maintain this grass:
- Water: The grass is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall. However, it will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The grass does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once or twice a year to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The grass prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soil.
- Sunlight: The grass prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The grass can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cenchrus Clandestinus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Armyworms: These pests can cause significant damage to the grass by feeding on the leaves and stems.
- Brown patch: This fungal disease can cause circular patches of dead grass.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause small, round spots on the leaves.
Habitat
Cenchrus Clandestinus is native to Africa but has been introduced in other parts of the world, including Australia and the United States. It is commonly found in savannas, grasslands, and other open habitats. It can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, including drought and poor soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cenchrus Clandestinus an invasive species?
A: Yes, Cenchrus Clandestinus is considered an invasive species in some parts of the world, including Australia and the United States.
Q: Can Cenchrus Clandestinus be used for grazing?
A: Yes, Cenchrus Clandestinus is commonly used for grazing and as a forage crop.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Cenchrus Clandestinus?
A: Cenchrus Clandestinus can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: Can Cenchrus Clandestinus survive in drought-prone areas?
A: Yes, Cenchrus Clandestinus has a deep root system which enables it to survive in drought-prone areas.
Related Plants
- Cenchrus Echinatus
- Cenchrus Setaceus
- Cenchrus Tribuloides
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Cenchrus Clandestinus Hochst. ex Chiov. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CECL2
- Wikipedia. (2021, March 11). Cenchrus Clandestinus. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cenchrus_clandestinus
