Contents
Description
Amphicarpum Muhlenbergianum, commonly known as poverty grass or poverty oatgrass, is a native grass species to North America. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is an annual or perennial plant that can grow up to 60 cm in height. This plant has two types of seeds, one produced above ground and the other below ground, making it a unique species. It is also known for its ability to tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Amphicarpum |
Appearance
The leaves of Amphicarpum Muhlenbergianum are narrow and can grow up to 30 cm in length. The inflorescence is a panicle that can reach up to 20 cm in length. The seeds produced above ground are light brown and have a flattened shape, while the seeds produced below ground are dark brown and have a more rounded shape. The plant’s stem is slender and can either be erect or reclining.
Care Guide
Water: This plant can tolerate drought, but it is recommended to water it consistently to promote healthy growth.Fertilization: Amphicarpum Muhlenbergianum does not require much fertilization, but adding compost to the soil can help improve its nutrient content.Soil: This plant can grow in poor soil conditions, but it prefers well-draining soil.Sunlight: It can grow in full sun or partial shade.Hardiness Zones: This plant can grow in hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Amphicarpum Muhlenbergianum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot if the plant is stressed or grown in poor conditions. Insect pests that may affect this plant include grasshoppers and armyworms.
Habitat
This plant can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, savannas, and open woodlands. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and drought, making it a suitable plant for areas with low moisture levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Amphicarpum Muhlenbergianum an invasive species?
A: No, this plant is not considered an invasive species.Q: Can Amphicarpum Muhlenbergianum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers.Q: Does Amphicarpum Muhlenbergianum have any medicinal properties?
A: No, there are no known medicinal properties associated with this plant.Q: How can I propagate Amphicarpum Muhlenbergianum?
A: This plant can be propagated through seed or division.
Related Plants
- Amphicarpum purshii
- Amphicarpum rigidum
- Amphicarpum scoparium
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Amphicarpum muhlenbergianum (Michx.) B.S.P. Retrieved February 18, 2022, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?id=AMMU5
- Illinois Wildflowers. (n.d.). Amphicarpum muhlenbergianum. Retrieved February 18, 2022, from https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/poverty_grass.htm
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Amphicarpum Muhlenbergianum. Retrieved February 18, 2022, from https://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=242357491
