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Description
Schizachne Purpurascens, commonly known as the Purple Sheathed Schizachyrium, is a perennial grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. This plant is native to North America and is widely distributed in the eastern and central regions of the United States. It is a warm-season grass that grows in dense clumps and can reach up to 3 feet in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Schizachne |
Appearance
Schizachne Purpurascens has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other grasses. The plant has flat, broad leaves that are blue-green in color and can grow up to 12 inches long. The stems are round and have a reddish-purple color, which gives the plant its common name. The flowers of this grass are small and inconspicuous, appearing in late summer and early fall.
Care Guide
Schizachne Purpurascens is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this grass:
Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer to encourage growth.
Soil: This grass prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: Schizachne Purpurascens thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: This grass is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Schizachne Purpurascens is relatively pest and disease-free. However, some common pests that may attack this plant include aphids, spider mites, and grasshoppers. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Schizachne Purpurascens is commonly found in open woodlands, prairies, and meadows. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. This grass is native to North America and is widely distributed in the eastern and central regions of the United States.
Question and Answer
Q. Is Schizachne Purpurascens a good choice for a low-maintenance garden?
A. Yes, this plant is a good choice for a low-maintenance garden as it requires minimal care.
Q. Can Schizachne Purpurascens tolerate drought conditions?
A. Yes, this grass can tolerate drought conditions, but it prefers moderate watering.
Q. When is the best time to fertilize Schizachne Purpurascens?
A. The best time to fertilize this plant is in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q. How tall can Schizachne Purpurascens grow?
A. This grass can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Schizachne Purpurascens that you may find interesting:
- Schizachyrium scoparium
- Panicum virgatum
- Andropogon gerardii
- Calamagrostis canadensis
- Sorghastrum nutans
References
- “Schizachne Purpurascens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 4, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c354
- “Schizachne Purpurascens.” North Carolina State University. Accessed September 4, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/schizachne-purpurascens/
- “Purple Sheathed Schizachyrium (Schizachne Purpurascens).” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed September 4, 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/purp_schiz.html
