Danthonia

Description

Danthonia is a genus of grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as poverty oatgrass, wild oatgrass, and poverty grass. This plant is native to different regions of the world, including North America, South America, and Australia. Danthonia species are usually found in open habitats, such as prairies, meadows, savannas, and woodlands. They can be annual or perennial, with culms that range from 10 to 100 centimeters in height. The leaves are narrow and flat, and the inflorescence is usually a panicle or spike.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Liliopsida
Order	Poales
Family	Poaceae
Genus	Danthonia

Appearance

The appearance of Danthonia species can vary depending on the habitat and geographic location. However, most species have similar characteristics, including narrow leaves that are usually flat and pointed. The inflorescence can be a panicle, spike, or raceme, and it can range in color from green to brown. The culms are slender and can be either erect or decumbent. Some species of Danthonia have awns or bristles that can be up to several centimeters long.

Care Guide

To care for Danthonia, you should provide it with well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate drought conditions. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Danthonia can grow in different hardiness zones, depending on the species. Some species are hardy in zones 3 to 9, while others can grow in zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Danthonia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some species can be affected by fungal diseases, such as leaf and stem rust. These diseases can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunting of the plant. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves and stems. Insects, such as grasshoppers and cutworms, can also feed on Danthonia, causing damage to the leaves and stems. Use insecticides or natural predators to control these pests.

Habitat

Danthonia can be found in different habitats around the world, including prairies, meadows, savannas, and woodlands. Some species prefer moist soils, while others can grow in dry and rocky areas. Danthonia can tolerate different climates, from temperate to tropical. In North America, Danthonia species can be found from Alaska to Florida, and from California to Nova Scotia. In South America, they can be found in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. In Australia, they are common in open forests and grasslands.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Danthonia a good plant for erosion control?

A: Yes, Danthonia can be used for erosion control due to its deep root system and ability to tolerate dry conditions.

Q: Can Danthonia be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Danthonia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Q: How often should Danthonia be fertilized?

A: Danthonia should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Is Danthonia resistant to pests and diseases?

A: Danthonia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but some species can be affected by fungal diseases and insects.

Related Plants

• Festuca
• Poa
• Stipa
• Panicum

References

• “Danthonia.” Flora of North America. Accessed 10 June 2021.
• “Danthonia.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 10 June 2021.
• “Danthonia.” Australian Plant Image Index. Accessed 10 June 2021.