Pogonarthria

Description:

Pogonarthria is a genus of grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is a perennial plant that typically grows in open or disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and waste grounds. The plant is native to tropical and southern Africa, Madagascar, and the Comoro Islands. It is commonly known as beard grass due to its hairy or bristled inflorescence.

Taxonomic Information:

Appearance:

Pogonarthria can grow up to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has long, narrow leaves that can range from light green to dark green in color. The inflorescence of the plant is a bristly spike that can grow up to 10 inches long. The spike is usually green when young, turning brown as it matures.

Care Guide:

Pogonarthria is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: Pogonarthria prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. However, it is important to water the plant regularly during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
• Fertilization: Pogonarthria does not require regular fertilization. However, you can feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to enhance its growth.
• Soil: Pogonarthria can grow in a variety of soil types, as long as it is well-drained.
• Sunlight: Pogonarthria prefers full sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Pogonarthria can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases:

Pogonarthria is generally pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf rust and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves.

Habitat:

Pogonarthria is native to tropical and southern Africa, Madagascar, and the Comoro Islands. It can grow in a variety of habitats such as open or disturbed areas, roadsides, fields, and waste grounds.

Question and Answer:

Q: Is Pogonarthria a hardy plant?
A: Yes, Pogonarthria can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.

Q: Does Pogonarthria require regular fertilization?
A: No, Pogonarthria does not require regular fertilization.

Q: How tall can Pogonarthria grow?
A: Pogonarthria can grow up to 5 feet tall.

Q: Is Pogonarthria resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Yes, Pogonarthria is generally pest-free and disease-resistant.

Related Plants:

• Eragrostis
• Pennisetum
• Panicum
• Andropogon

References:

• Flora of Zimbabwe. (n.d.). Pogonarthria. Retrieved from http://www.zimbabweflora.co.zw/speciesdata/genus.php?genus_id=418
• The Plant List. (2013). Pogonarthria. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Poaceae/Pogonarthria/
• USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Pogonarthria. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=POGO6