Contents
Description
Eragrostis Cilianensis is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is an annual or short-lived perennial grass that is native to Africa, but it can also be found in other parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and America. The plant has a tufted habit and can grow up to 60 cm in height. It has slender stems that are often red or purple. The leaves are narrow and can grow up to 25 cm long. The inflorescence is a panicle that can grow up to 20 cm long and has numerous tiny flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Eragrostis |
Appearance
Eragrostis Cilianensis is a slender grass that has a tufted habit. It can grow up to 60 cm in height and has slender stems that are often red or purple. The leaves are narrow and can grow up to 25 cm long. The inflorescence is a panicle that can grow up to 20 cm long and has numerous tiny flowers. The flowers are usually green or purple and turn brown as they mature. The seeds are small and have a rounded shape, and they are usually dispersed by wind.
Care Guide
Eragrostis Cilianensis is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
- Water: The plant can tolerate drought, but it grows best in moist soil. Water the plant once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Eragrostis Cilianensis can grow in hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eragrostis Cilianensis is a hardy plant that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, here are some common problems that you may encounter:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This fungal disease causes the roots to rot, which can kill the plant. Avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-drained.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the plant, causing yellow leaves and stunted growth. Treat the plant with an insecticide.
Habitat
Eragrostis Cilianensis is native to Africa, but it can also be found in other parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas. It can tolerate drought and can grow in poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eragrostis Cilianensis a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Eragrostis Cilianensis is a good plant for erosion control because its roots help to stabilize the soil.
Q: Can Eragrostis Cilianensis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Eragrostis Cilianensis can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its roots.
Q: Does Eragrostis Cilianensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Eragrostis Cilianensis can attract wildlife such as birds and insects.
Q: How often should I prune Eragrostis Cilianensis?
A: Eragrostis Cilianensis does not require pruning, but you can remove dead or damaged leaves if necessary.
Related Plants
- Eragrostis Curvula
- Eragrostis Tef
- Eragrostis Capensis
- Eragrostis Minor
References
- “Eragrostis Cilianensis.” PlantZAfrica.com, http://pza.sanbi.org/eragrostis-cilianensis. Accessed 15 May 2021.
- “Eragrostis Cilianensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d829. Accessed 15 May 2021.
- “Eragrostis Cilianensis.” Flora of Zimbabwe, http://www.zimbabweflora.co.zw/speciesdata/species.php?species_id=144720. Accessed 15 May 2021.
