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Description
Tragus, also known as lovegrass, is a genus of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This type of grass is commonly found in dry and arid areas, and it is known for its ability to thrive in harsh conditions. Tragus is a clumping grass that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has narrow leaves that are about 2-5 cm long and 2-4 mm wide. The inflorescence is a panicle that is about 5-30 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The flowers are spikelets that are about 2-3 mm long and 1-1.5 mm wide, and they bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Tragus |
Appearance
Tragus is a clumping grass that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has narrow leaves that are about 2-5 cm long and 2-4 mm wide. The leaves are green and can have a slightly bluish tint. The inflorescence is a panicle that is about 5-30 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The flowers are spikelets that are about 2-3 mm long and 1-1.5 mm wide. The spikelets are green or purplish and bloom from June to August. Tragus seeds are about 1-1.5 mm long and 0.5-0.7 mm wide, and they have a slightly curved shape.
Care Guide
Tragus is a low-maintenance grass that can thrive in harsh conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for Tragus:
- Water: Tragus is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. However, it can benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Tragus does not require fertilization. However, if you want to promote growth, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Tragus can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soil. Avoid planting Tragus in soil that is too wet, as it can cause root rot.
- Sunlight: Tragus prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Tragus can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tragus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and make sure the soil is well-drained. Tragus can also be affected by grasshoppers, armyworms, and cutworms. If you notice signs of pest infestation, you can apply an insecticide to control the population.
Habitat
Tragus is native to North America and can be found in dry and arid areas, such as deserts, prairies, and grasslands. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and pastures. Tragus can tolerate a wide range of soil types and is adapted to survive in harsh conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tragus edible?
A: No, Tragus is not edible.
Q: Can Tragus be used for ornamental purposes?
A: Yes, Tragus can be used for ornamental purposes in landscaping and gardening.
Q: How fast does Tragus grow?
A: Tragus grows at a moderate pace and can reach maturity in about 2-3 years.
Q: Can Tragus be grown indoors?
A: No, Tragus is an outdoor grass and cannot be grown indoors.
Related Plants
- Bouteloua
- Muhlenbergia
- Andropogon
- Sporobolus
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Tragus L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=TRAGU
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Tragus. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282016
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Tragus. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=133842
