Contents
Description
Eragrostis Intermedia, commonly known as Plains Lovegrass, is a warm-season perennial grass native to North America. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is a valuable forage plant for both livestock and wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Eragrostis |
Appearance
Eragrostis Intermedia grows up to 3 feet tall and forms dense clumps. It has narrow green leaves that are about 1/8 inch wide and up to 12 inches long. The seed heads are 4-8 inches long and have a purplish tint. The grass spreads through rhizomes and seeds, forming thick mats that are resistant to grazing and trampling.
Care Guide
Eragrostis Intermedia is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 5.5-7.5.
- Sunlight: Eragrostis Intermedia prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eragrostis Intermedia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by some common problems:
- Leaf Spot: A fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves.
- Root Rot: A fungal disease that causes the roots to become mushy and decay.
- Armyworms: Caterpillars that feed on the leaves and can cause severe damage.
- Grasshoppers: Can cause severe defoliation if populations are high.
Habitat
Eragrostis Intermedia is found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought and heat. The plant is native to North America and is found from Canada to Mexico.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eragrostis Intermedia a good forage plant for livestock?
A: Yes, Eragrostis Intermedia is a valuable forage plant for both livestock and wildlife.
Q: What is the best time to plant Eragrostis Intermedia?
A: The best time to plant Eragrostis Intermedia is in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Eragrostis Intermedia tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Eragrostis Intermedia can tolerate drought and heat.
Q: How often should I fertilize Eragrostis Intermedia?
A: Fertilize once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Eragrostis Curvula
- Eragrostis Spectabilis
- Eragrostis Tef
References
- “Eragrostis intermedia.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ERIN4.
- “Eragrostis intermedia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ERIN4.
- “Plains Lovegrass.” Kansas Native Plants, knps.org/plant-detail/eragrostis-intermedia.
