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Description
Paspalum Paniculatum, commonly known as Hairy Paspalum, is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to the southern region of the United States, Central America, and South America. The plant has a sprawling growth habit and can grow up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are narrow and long, measuring 3-10 inches in length and 0.3-0.5 inches in width. The plant produces a dense panicle of spikelets that are greenish to brownish in color, and each spikelet has 2-4 flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Paspalum |
Appearance
Hairy Paspalum has a unique appearance with its flat and narrow leaves that taper at the tip. The leaves are hairy on both the upper and lower surfaces. The plant has a sprawling growth habit and can form mats over the ground. It produces a dense panicle of spikelets that are greenish to brownish in color. The spikelets are arranged in a branching inflorescence and each spikelet has 2-4 flowers. The plant produces seeds that are about 0.08 inches in diameter and are enclosed in a tough outer layer.
Care Guide
Hairy Paspalum prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought conditions. It can grow in a wide range of soil types but prefers well-drained soil. The plant requires full sun exposure to grow properly. Fertilize the plant annually with a balanced fertilizer. Hairy Paspalum is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hairy Paspalum is susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust, smut, and leaf spot. It can also be affected by insect pests such as cutworms, armyworms, and white grubs. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent these issues from occurring.
Habitat
Hairy Paspalum is native to the southern region of the United States, Central America, and South America. It can be found in wetlands, along the edges of rivers and streams, and in other moist habitats. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types and can tolerate both drought and flooding conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hairy Paspalum an invasive species?
A: Hairy Paspalum is not considered an invasive species, but it can spread quickly in wetland areas and compete with other native plants.
Q: Can Hairy Paspalum be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, Hairy Paspalum can be used for erosion control due to its ability to form dense mats over the ground.
Q: How often should I water Hairy Paspalum?
A: Hairy Paspalum prefers moist soil but can tolerate drought conditions. Water the plant when the soil becomes dry to the touch.
Q: Can Hairy Paspalum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Hairy Paspalum can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives adequate sunlight and water.
Related Plants
- Paspalum distichum
- Paspalum vaginatum
- Paspalum notatum
- Paspalum urvillei
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Paspalum paniculatum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PAPA85
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Hairy Paspalum. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/WG007
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Paspalum paniculatum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g690
