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Description
Eremochloa Bimaculata, commonly known as centipede grass or swamp grass, is a type of grass native to Southeast Asia. This low-growing, warm-season perennial grass is often used for lawns, pastures, and erosion control due to its ability to tolerate a wide range of soil types and conditions. It has a creeping growth habit and spreads by stolons (above-ground stems) that root at the nodes, forming a dense mat.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Eremochloa |
Appearance
Centipede grass has a medium to light green color and a coarse texture. Its leaves are long and narrow, with pointed tips and a folded appearance. The blade edges are slightly rough to the touch. The grass produces short, spike-like seed heads that are two to three inches long and light green in color. It grows to a height of about 4-6 inches and can spread up to 12 inches per year.
Care Guide
Water
Centipede grass prefers moist soil and should be watered deeply once a week during dry periods. Overwatering can lead to disease and pest problems, so it is important not to water too frequently or too much.
Fertilization
Centipede grass requires less fertilizer than other grasses, and too much can actually harm the plant. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and fall, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Soil
Centipede grass prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils.
Sunlight
Centipede grass prefers partial shade to full sun, but can tolerate full shade in some situations. It is not recommended for areas with heavy foot traffic or where play is frequent.
Hardiness Zones
Centipede grass is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centipede grass is relatively pest and disease resistant, but can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as brown patch and dollar spot. Common pests include chinch bugs and mole crickets.
Habitat
Centipede grass is native to Southeast Asia, but has been widely introduced in other parts of the world, including the southern United States. It is often used for lawns, pastures, and erosion control in areas with mild winters and hot summers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can centipede grass be grown from seed?
A: Yes, centipede grass can be grown from seed, but it is more commonly propagated by sod or plugs.
Q: How often should centipede grass be mowed?
A: Centipede grass should be mowed to a height of 1-2 inches every 7-10 days during the growing season.
Q: Is centipede grass shade tolerant?
A: Yes, centipede grass is shade tolerant, but it prefers partial shade to full sun.
Q: Can centipede grass be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, centipede grass is often used for erosion control due to its ability to form a dense mat and tolerate a wide range of soil types and conditions.
Related Plants
- Eremochloa Ophiuroides
- Eremochloa Ciliaris
- Eremochloa Muricata
- Eremochloa Bicolor
References
- “Centipedegrass.” University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/lawns/centipedegrass.aspx
- “Eremochloa Bimaculata.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Kew Science. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:400369-1
- “Centipedegrass Maintenance Calendar.” Clemson Cooperative Extension. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/centipedegrass-maintenance-calendar/
