Contents
Description
Chloris Gayana, also known as Rhodes grass, is a perennial grass that is native to South Africa. It is a popular forage grass that is widely used for grazing and hay production. It is also used for soil conservation and as a cover crop. Chloris Gayana thrives in warm, humid climates and is drought tolerant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Chloris |
Appearance
Chloris Gayana has long, narrow, green leaves that can grow up to 50 cm in length. The blades are flat and have a rough texture. The stems are tall and slender, reaching up to 1.5 m in height. The flowers are arranged in spikelets and are green or purplish in color. The seeds are small and brown.
Care Guide
Chloris Gayana requires moderate watering and fertilization. It thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Chloris Gayana is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chloris Gayana is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including armyworms, cutworms, leaf rust, and smut. Proper irrigation and fertilization can help prevent these issues, as well as regular monitoring and treatment as needed.
Habitat
Chloris Gayana is native to South Africa but is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It grows best in warm, humid climates and is drought tolerant.
Question and Answer
Q: What is Chloris Gayana used for?
A: Chloris Gayana is used for grazing, hay production, soil conservation, and as a cover crop.
Q: What type of soil does Chloris Gayana prefer?
A: Chloris Gayana thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Chloris Gayana?
A: Chloris Gayana is susceptible to armyworms, cutworms, leaf rust, and smut.
Q: What hardiness zones is Chloris Gayana hardy in?
A: Chloris Gayana is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Chloris barbata
- Chloris cucullata
- Chloris elata
- Chloris virgata
References
- “Chloris Gayana.” FAO. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, n.d. Web. 21 May 2021.
- “Rhodes Grass.” Queensland Government, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 May 2021.
- “Chloris Gayana.” Tropical Forages. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 May 2021.
