Contents
Description
Panicum Urvilleanum, also known as West Indian Panic Grass, is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant is native to the West Indies, South America, and Central America. It is a beautiful ornamental grass that can be grown in gardens and landscapes. Panicum Urvilleanum is known for its unique features such as its graceful habit and beautiful foliage that changes colors throughout the year.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Panicum |
Appearance
Panicum Urvilleanum can grow up to 3-4 feet in height and 2-3 feet in width. It has a clumping habit with narrow, upright leaves that are long and pointed. The foliage of this grass is blue-green in color when it first emerges, but as it matures, it turns silvery-green. In the fall, the foliage turns a beautiful coppery color. Panicum Urvilleanum produces small, fluffy flowers that are greenish-white in color and appear on tall, slender stems in late summer.
Care Guide
Panicum Urvilleanum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this grass:
- Water: Panicum Urvilleanum prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought once established. It is important to water this grass regularly during the growing season.
- Fertilization: This grass does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.
- Soil: Panicum Urvilleanum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: This grass prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Panicum Urvilleanum is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Panicum Urvilleanum is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can sometimes be affected by fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. These can be treated with a fungicide if necessary. Common pests that may affect this grass include grasshoppers, cutworms, and spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticides or by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs.
Habitat
Panicum Urvilleanum is native to the West Indies, South America, and Central America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including savannas, coastal dunes, and disturbed areas. This grass prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Panicum Urvilleanum a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Panicum Urvilleanum is a great plant for landscaping as it is low-maintenance and has beautiful foliage.
Q: Can Panicum Urvilleanum tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Panicum Urvilleanum can tolerate periods of drought once established.
Q: What is the best time to plant Panicum Urvilleanum?
A: The best time to plant Panicum Urvilleanum is in the spring or fall.
Q: How often should I water Panicum Urvilleanum?
A: Panicum Urvilleanum prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Panicum Virgatum (Switchgrass)
- Panicum Repens (Torpedo Grass)
- Panicum Maximum (Guinea Grass)
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/panicum-urvilleanum-west-indian-panic-grass
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PAUR2
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/panicum/panicum-urvilleanum-info.htm
