Contents
Description
Digitaria Eriantha is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is commonly known as woolly finger grass or winter grass due to its ability to grow during the winter season. The plant is native to southern Africa and has been introduced to various countries around the world. Its scientific name, Digitaria, is derived from the Latin word “digitus” which means finger, referring to the finger-like arrangement of the spikelets.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Digitaria |
Appearance
Digitaria Eriantha has a tufted growth habit, with stems that can reach up to 60cm in height. The leaves are narrow and long, measuring around 10-30cm in length and 3-10mm in width. They have a light green color and a rough texture. The plant produces spikes that are finger-like in shape, with each spikelet measuring around 2-5mm in length. The flowers bloom from May to August and are followed by the production of seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Digitaria Eriantha, it is important to provide it with the right conditions to thrive. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate dry periods. Water it regularly during the growing season.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level.- Sunlight: It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Digitaria Eriantha is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Digitaria Eriantha is generally considered to be a hardy plant that is not often affected by pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:- Rust: This fungal disease can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves of the plant.- Armyworms: These pests can cause damage to the foliage of the plant.- Root rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage.
Habitat
Digitaria Eriantha is native to southern Africa but has been introduced to various countries around the world, including Australia and the United States. It can be found in a range of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Digitaria Eriantha be grown as a lawn grass?
A: Yes, it can be grown as a lawn grass in areas with a mild winter climate.
Q: Is Digitaria Eriantha drought-tolerant?
A: While it can tolerate dry periods, it prefers moist soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Digitaria Eriantha?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Is Digitaria Eriantha a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, it can be used for erosion control due to its ability to form a dense root system.
Related Plants
– Digitaria Ciliaris- Digitaria Sanguinalis- Digitaria Insularis- Digitaria Paniculata
References
– “Digitaria eriantha.” PlantZAfrica.com. http://pza.sanbi.org/digitaria-eriantha- “Digitaria eriantha (Steud.) C.E.Hubb.” Kew Science. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:398930-1- “Woolly Fingergrass.” Agriculture and Food. https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/weeds/woolly-fingergrass
