Contents
Description
Andropogon Virginicus is a native plant species found in North America. Commonly known as broomsedge bluestem, it is a warm-season grass that grows in clumps up to 3 feet tall. The plant produces hardy stems that are green in the early stages but turn brownish-red as they mature. The leaves are 2-10 inches long and 1/8-1/4 inch wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Monocotyledonae |
| Order: | Cyperales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Andropogon |
Appearance
Andropogon Virginicus has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other grass species. The plant produces tall stems that grow in clumps and can reach up to 3 feet in height. The stems are green in the early stages of growth but turn brownish-red as they mature. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring 2-10 inches in length and 1/8-1/4 inch in width. The leaves are green in color and have a rough texture. The plant produces flowers in the late summer or early fall that are purplish-brown in color.
Care Guide
Andropogon Virginicus is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips for growing this plant:- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. It is best to water the plant deeply but infrequently to promote deep root growth.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in the spring.- Soil: The plant grows best in well-drained, sandy soils but can tolerate a wide range of soil types.- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to grow and thrive.- Hardiness Zones: Andropogon Virginicus is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Andropogon Virginicus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant can sometimes be affected by leaf spot or rust, which can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves. To prevent these diseases, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Andropogon Virginicus is a native plant species found in North America. It is commonly found in open fields, meadows, and prairies. The plant is well-adapted to dry, sandy soils and is often found in areas with low soil fertility.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Andropogon Virginicus a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, the plant has a deep root system that helps prevent soil erosion.
Q: Can Andropogon Virginicus be grown in containers?
A: No, the plant requires deep soil for its root system and is not suitable for container growing.
Q: Is Andropogon Virginicus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant due to its tough texture and unpalatable taste.
Q: Can Andropogon Virginicus be used for hay or forage?
A: Yes, the plant is a valuable forage crop for livestock and can be used for hay production.
Related Plants
– Andropogon Gerardii- Andropogon Scoparius- Andropogon Ternarius- Andropogon Hallii
References
– Broomsedge Bluestem (Andropogon Virginicus). (n.d.). Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=291447&isprofile=0&basic=broomsedge%20bluestem- Andropogon Virginicus. (n.d.). Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ANVI- Broomsedge Bluestem. (2019, March 7). USDA NRCS. https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_anvi.pdf
