Contents
Description
Dichelachne is a plant that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is also known as the Spreading Windmill Grass or Dichelachne crinita. This plant is native to Australia and is commonly found in grasslands, woodlands, and forests. Dichelachne is a perennial plant that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. It has a tufted habit and forms dense clumps. Its leaves are narrow and sharp, growing from the base of the plant. The inflorescence of Dichelachne is a panicle that grows up to 30 centimeters in length. The panicle is composed of spikelets that are arranged alternately along the branches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Dichelachne |
Appearance
Dichelachne is a tall, tufted plant that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. It forms dense clumps that can be up to 1 meter wide. The leaves of Dichelachne are narrow and sharp, growing from the base of the plant. They are green in color and can be up to 40 centimeters long. The inflorescence of Dichelachne is a panicle that grows up to 30 centimeters in length. The panicle is composed of spikelets that are arranged alternately along the branches. The spikelets are green in color and turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
Dichelachne is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Dichelachne prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Dichelachne does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Dichelachne prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: Dichelachne prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Dichelachne is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dichelachne is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases if grown in poorly-drained soil. To prevent these issues, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Dichelachne is native to Australia and is commonly found in grasslands, woodlands, and forests. It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. Dichelachne is also tolerant of drought and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dichelachne a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Dichelachne is a great plant for landscaping. It is low-maintenance and can add texture and movement to the landscape.
Q: Can Dichelachne be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Dichelachne can be grown in containers. However, it may require more frequent watering than when grown in the ground.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dichelachne?
A: Dichelachne does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial.
Q: Does Dichelachne attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Dichelachne can attract wildlife such as birds and small mammals.
Related Plants
- Elymus
- Festuca
- Lolium
- Pennisetum
- Poa
References
- “Dichelachne crinita.” Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. https://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=6970
- “Dichelachne crinita.” PlantNET. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Dichelachne~crinita
- “Dichelachne crinita.” Atlas of Living Australia. https://bie.ala.org.au/species/https://id.biodiversity.org.au/node/apni/2917162
