Axonopus Compressus
Contents
Description
Axonopus Compressus, also known as carpet grass, is a perennial grass that is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is native to South America but has been introduced to other parts of the world as a lawn grass. It grows to a height of about 6 inches and spreads by stolons or runners. The leaves are green, narrow, and up to 6 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Axonopus |
Appearance
Axonopus Compressus is a low-growing grass that forms a dense carpet-like mat. Its leaves are narrow and up to 6 inches long. The inflorescence is a spike-like panicle up to 12 inches long. The flowers are green or purplish and are followed by small, brown, one-seeded fruits. The roots are shallow and fibrous.
Care Guide
Axonopus Compressus is a low-maintenance grass that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your carpet grass healthy:
Water: Water your grass deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Axonopus Compressus is moderately drought-tolerant but prefers moist soil.
Fertilization: Fertilize your grass every 6-8 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid burn and encourage steady growth.
Soil: Axonopus Compressus prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, add sulfur to lower the pH.
Sunlight: This grass prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. If your lawn is in a shaded area, consider planting a shade-tolerant grass or groundcover instead.
Hardiness Zones: Axonopus Compressus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It may survive in zone 8 with protection.
Common Pests & Diseases
Axonopus Compressus is relatively pest and disease-resistant but may be affected by the following:
Chinch Bugs: These small insects feed on the grass blades, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Armyworms: These caterpillars feed on the grass blades and can quickly defoliate a lawn. Use a microbial insecticide or a natural predator like a parasitic wasp to control the infestation.
Brown Patch: This fungal disease causes circular or irregular brown patches on the lawn. Improve air circulation, avoid over-watering, and use a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Axonopus Compressus is native to South America but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and the United States. It grows in a variety of habitats, including lawns, pastures, and waste areas. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Axonopus Compressus a good lawn grass?
A: Yes, Axonopus Compressus is a popular lawn grass in tropical and subtropical regions. It forms a dense carpet-like mat and requires little maintenance.
Q: How often should I water my Axonopus Compressus lawn?
A: Water your lawn deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Aim for 1 inch of water per week.
Q: Can I mow Axonopus Compressus?
A: Yes, you can mow Axonopus Compressus to a height of 2-3 inches. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blades at a time.
Q: Does Axonopus Compressus spread by rhizomes or stolons?
A: Axonopus Compressus spreads primarily by stolons or runners.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Axonopus Compressus:
- Axonopus fissifolius
- Axonopus affinis
- Axonopus scoparius
- Axonopus compressus var. hirsutior
References
- “Axonopus Compressus.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/LH/LH00600.pdf
- “Carpet Grass.” University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/lawns/docs/fescue-carpetgrass.pdf
- “Axonopus.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/axonopus
