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Description
Australopyrum Calcis, commonly known as limestone wheatgrass, is a plant species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is a perennial grass that can grow up to 1 meter in height. The plant has a dense tuft of leaves, and its inflorescence is a spike-like panicle.This plant species is commonly found in North America, particularly in the Great Plains region, where it grows in areas with calcareous soils. It is a valuable forage plant for livestock and wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Australopyrum |
Appearance
The leaves of Australopyrum Calcis are narrow and can grow up to 30 cm long. The blades are flat or rolled and have pointed tips. The ligule is membranous and surrounds the stem. The plant’s inflorescence is a spike-like panicle that can grow up to 20 cm long. The spikelets are awned and have two or three florets.
Care Guide
Australopyrum Calcis requires well-draining soil and full sunlight. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in areas with low rainfall. The plant prefers calcareous soils and can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 8. Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: The plant prefers calcareous soils with a pH level of 7.0 to 8.5.Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight.Hardiness Zones: Australopyrum Calcis can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Australopyrum Calcis is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf rust and stem rust, which are fungal diseases that can cause damage to the plant’s leaves and stem. The plant can also be affected by grasshoppers and armyworms, which can feed on its leaves.
Habitat
Australopyrum Calcis is commonly found in North America, particularly in the Great Plains region. It grows in areas with calcareous soils and can be found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant is an important forage plant for livestock and wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Australopyrum Calcis a perennial or annual plant?
A: Australopyrum Calcis is a perennial grass.
Q: What is the plant’s inflorescence?
A: The plant’s inflorescence is a spike-like panicle.
Q: What is the plant’s preferred soil type?
A: Australopyrum Calcis prefers calcareous soils with a pH level of 7.0 to 8.5.
Q: What is the plant’s hardiness zone?
A: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Related Plants
- Poa compressa
- Festuca ovina
- Lolium perenne
References
- USDA Plants Database: Australopyrum Calcis
- Flora of North America: Australopyrum Calcis
- Great Plains Nature Center: Limestone Wheatgrass
