Axonopus

Description

Axonopus is a genus of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family, also known as the grass family. This genus comprises around 200 species of grasses that are native to tropical and subtropical regions of America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. The grass is widely used for lawns and pastures due to its fine texture, tolerance to shade and drought, and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Axonopus grass has a fine texture and a bright green color that intensifies with proper care. The blades of the grass are flat and grow to a height of 2 to 6 inches. The grass has shallow roots that allow it to spread and form dense mats. The inflorescence of the grass is a spike-like panicle that emerges from the tips of the stems and produces small flowers. The seeds of the grass are small and oval-shaped.

Care Guide

Axonopus grass requires regular care to maintain its health and appearance. Here are some tips for caring for Axonopus:

• Water: Water the grass regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Axonopus is tolerant of drought but does not do well in standing water.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the grass every four to six weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
• Soil: Axonopus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
• Sunlight: Axonopus prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. In hot climates, it may require some shade during the hottest part of the day.
• Hardiness Zones: Axonopus is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Axonopus grass is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:

• Armyworms: These pests feed on the leaves of the grass and can quickly destroy a lawn or pasture. Use insecticides to control armyworms.
• Chinch bugs: These pests suck the sap from the grass and can cause yellowing and wilting. Use insecticides and proper cultural practices to control chinch bugs.
• Brown patch: This fungal disease causes circular patches of dead grass to appear in the lawn. Control brown patch by practicing good lawn care and using fungicides.
• Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the grass to wilt and die. Control root rot by removing affected plants and improving soil drainage.

Habitat

Axonopus grass is native to tropical and subtropical regions of America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including pastures, lawns, open fields, and forest clearings. The grass prefers warm temperatures and can tolerate shade and drought.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Axonopus grass easy to maintain?

A: Yes, Axonopus grass is relatively easy to maintain with proper care.

Q: Can Axonopus grass grow in full sun?

A: Axonopus grass prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.

Q: How often should I fertilize Axonopus grass?

A: Fertilize Axonopus grass every four to six weeks during the growing season.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Axonopus grass?

A: Axonopus grass is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.

Related Plants

• Brachiaria
• Bouteloua
• Cynodon
• Digitaria
• Panicum

References

• “Axonopus.” The Plant List. Accessed 17 August 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Poaceae/Axonopus/
• “Axonopus.” Grasses of the World Online. Accessed 17 August 2021. https://www.kew.org/data/grasses-db/spp/search?table=species&search_term=axonopus
• Hanna, Wayne W. “Axonopus.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 17 August 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP118