Contents
Description
Agrostis Exarata, commonly known as Spike Bentgrass, is a tufted perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant is native to western North America, including Alaska, California, and Colorado. It is found in moist areas, such as meadows, stream banks, and wetlands. The plant grows up to 60 cm tall and has a shallow root system. The plant is used for forage, erosion control, and landscaping purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Agrostis |
Appearance
The Spike Bentgrass has a fine texture and a bright green color. It has long and thin leaves that are about 2-4 mm wide and 5-20 cm long. The leaves are folded and have a boat-shaped tip. The plant has a dense inflorescence that is 10-20 cm long and has spikelets with one to three flowers. The flowers are green or purple and bloom from June to August. The plant produces a large amount of seeds that are 1-1.5 mm long and are dispersed by wind.
Care Guide
To care for Agrostis Exarata, it is crucial to provide adequate water and fertilization. The plant requires moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote growth. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Agrostis Exarata is susceptible to pests and diseases. The most common pests that affect this plant are aphids, mites, and grasshoppers. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. The most common diseases that affect this plant are fungal diseases, such as rust and smut. These diseases can cause discoloration and deformation of the leaves and stems. To prevent pests and diseases, it is recommended to maintain good plant hygiene and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Agrostis Exarata is native to western North America and is commonly found in moist areas, such as meadows, stream banks, and wetlands. The plant is adapted to cold temperatures and can survive in high altitudes. It is also tolerant of flooding and can grow in waterlogged soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Agrostis Exarata a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Agrostis Exarata is commonly used for erosion control due to its extensive root system and ability to stabilize soil.
Q: Can Agrostis Exarata tolerate drought?
A: No, Agrostis Exarata requires moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: How often should I fertilize Agrostis Exarata?
A: It is recommended to fertilize Agrostis Exarata once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Agrostis Exarata?
A: The best time to plant Agrostis Exarata is in the early spring or fall when the soil is moist and temperatures are cool.
Related Plants
- Agrostis Capillaris
- Agrostis Gigantea
- Agrostis Stolonifera
- Agrostis Vinealis
References
- Bailey, L. H. (1923). Manual of Cultivated Plants. Macmillan.
- USDA, NRCS. (2021). The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/
- Wyoming Plant Company. (2021). Spike Bentgrass. Retrieved from https://www.wyomingplantcompany.com/product/spike-bentgrass-agrostis-exarata/
