Contents
Description
Dichanthium Annulatum, commonly known as Wylie grass, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is found in tropical and subtropical regions, including Africa, Asia, and Australia. This grass species is known for its tolerance to drought and grazing, making it a popular choice for pastures and range management. It has a high nutritional value and is an excellent source of forage for livestock.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Dichanthium |
Appearance
Dichanthium Annulatum has a tufted growth habit and can reach a height of up to 2 meters. The leaves are narrow and long, measuring up to 60 cm in length and 1 cm in width. The inflorescence is a compact panicle that is up to 25 cm long and 5 cm wide. The spikelets are arranged in pairs and have awns that are up to 2 cm long. The seeds are small and dark brown in color.
Care Guide
Water: Dichanthium Annulatum is a drought-tolerant grass species that can survive with minimal watering. It requires moderate moisture during its growing season.
Fertilization: This grass species can benefit from regular fertilization with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The recommended fertilization rate is 50-100 kg/ha of nitrogen, 20-40 kg/ha of phosphorus, and 20-40 kg/ha of potassium.
Soil: Dichanthium Annulatum can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate soils with low fertility.
Sunlight: This grass species requires full sunlight to grow and thrive.
Hardiness Zones: Dichanthium Annulatum can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dichanthium Annulatum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and smut. Pests that can affect this grass species include grasshoppers, armyworms, and cutworms.
Habitat
Dichanthium Annulatum is native to tropical and subtropical regions, including Africa, Asia, and Australia. It can be found in a wide range of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands. It is a popular choice for pasture and range management due to its tolerance to drought and grazing.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dichanthium Annulatum a good forage for livestock?
A: Yes, Dichanthium Annulatum is an excellent source of forage for livestock due to its high nutritional value.
Q: What are the recommended hardiness zones for Dichanthium Annulatum?
A: Dichanthium Annulatum can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: What pests can affect Dichanthium Annulatum?
A: Pests that can affect Dichanthium Annulatum include grasshoppers, armyworms, and cutworms.
Q: Is Dichanthium Annulatum tolerant to drought?
A: Yes, Dichanthium Annulatum is known for its tolerance to drought.
Related Plants
- Dichanthium aristatum
- Dichanthium caricosum
- Dichanthium clandestinum
- Dichanthium sericeum
References
- https://www.feedipedia.org/node/383
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/233005553_Cytogenetic_studies_in_Dichanthium_Annulatum_from_southern_India
- https://keyserver.lucidcentral.org/weeds/data/media/Html/dichanthium_annulatum.htm
