Contents
Description
Shinnersia Rivularis, commonly known as Mexican oakleaf or river oat, is a species of flowering plant in the family Poaceae. This plant is native to Mexico and Central America, and it grows in wetlands and along riverbanks. It is a perennial grass that can grow up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. The plant has a clumping growth habit and produces wiry stems that bear long, narrow leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledones |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Shinnersia |
Appearance
Shinnersia Rivularis has long, narrow leaves that can reach up to 20 inches in length. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy surface. They are arranged in an alternate pattern along the stem. The plant produces wiry stems that can grow up to 4 feet tall. The flowers of Shinnersia Rivularis are tiny and arranged in an inflorescence, which is a branching cluster of flowers. The inflorescence can grow up to 6 inches long and has a greenish hue.
Care Guide
Water
Shinnersia Rivularis requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant prefers moist soil, so make sure the soil is consistently damp but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilize Shinnersia Rivularis once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid over-fertilizing the plant.
Soil
Shinnersia Rivularis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight
Shinnersia Rivularis likes partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can damage the plant.
Hardiness Zones
Shinnersia Rivularis grows best in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Shinnersia Rivularis is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases if the soil is too wet. The plant can also be affected by spider mites, which can cause discoloration and webbing on the leaves.
Habitat
Shinnersia Rivularis is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in wetlands and along riverbanks. It prefers moist soil and partial shade to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Shinnersia Rivularis grow in dry soil?
A: No, Shinnersia Rivularis prefers moist soil. It will not grow well in dry soil.
Q: Does Shinnersia Rivularis require full sunlight?
A: No, Shinnersia Rivularis prefers partial shade to full shade. Too much direct sunlight can damage the plant.
Q: Is Shinnersia Rivularis a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Shinnersia Rivularis is a perennial plant.
Q: How tall can Shinnersia Rivularis grow?
A: Shinnersia Rivularis can grow up to 4 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Alopecurus pratensis
- Calamagrostis arundinacea
- Carex crinita
- Deschampsia cespitosa
- Dichanthelium clandestinum
References
- “Shinnersia Rivularis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282310&isprofile=0&basic=Shinnersia%20rivularis.
- “Shinnersia Rivularis.” PlantFiles. Accessed May 10, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/189968/.
- “Shinnersia Rivularis.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed May 10, 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=445055.
