Axonopus Fissifolius

Description

Axonopus Fissifolius, commonly known as the narrowleaf carpetgrass or carpetgrass, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. This grass species is native to South America, but it is now widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Axonopus Fissifolius is a popular choice for lawn and turf applications due to its hardiness and tolerance to heavy foot traffic.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Axonopus Fissifolius has a fine to medium-textured leaf blade that is about 3-6 millimeters wide and up to 20 centimeters long. The grass has a prostrate growth habit, forming a dense mat of creeping stolons and rhizomes that can reach up to 40 centimeters in height. The leaf sheath is hairy, and the ligule is a fringe of hairs. The inflorescence of the grass is a spike-like panicle that can reach up to 20 centimeters in length. The spikelets are arranged in pairs, with one spikelet being sessile and the other pedicellate.

Care Guide

Water: Axonopus Fissifolius requires regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to fungal diseases.

Fertilization: Fertilize the grass with a balanced fertilizer every six to eight weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period.

Soil: Axonopus Fissifolius prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. Avoid heavy clay soils and poorly drained areas.

Sunlight: Axonopus Fissifolius thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but may become less dense and more susceptible to pests and diseases.

Hardiness Zones: Axonopus Fissifolius is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pests: Axonopus Fissifolius is relatively pest-resistant, but it may be susceptible to armyworms, cutworms, and chinch bugs. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or a natural predator like nematodes.

Diseases: Axonopus Fissifolius is susceptible to fungal diseases like brown patch, gray leaf spot, and Pythium blight. Avoid overwatering, and treat with fungicides when necessary.

Habitat

Axonopus Fissifolius is native to South America but is now widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It grows well in a variety of soil types and is commonly found in lawns, parks, golf courses, and other turfgrass areas.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Axonopus Fissifolius drought-tolerant?

A: Axonopus Fissifolius is relatively drought-tolerant but prefers consistent moisture.

Q: How often should I mow Axonopus Fissifolius?

A: Mow the grass to a height of 1-3 inches every seven to ten days during the growing season.

Q: Can I grow Axonopus Fissifolius from seed?

A: Yes, Axonopus Fissifolius can be grown from seed, but it is more commonly propagated by stolons and rhizomes.

Q: Is Axonopus Fissifolius invasive?

A: Axonopus Fissifolius has a creeping growth habit that can become invasive in some areas. It is recommended to contain the grass in a defined area.

Related Plants

• Axonopus Compressus
• Axonopus Affinis
• Axonopus Pusillus
• Axonopus Furcatus

References

• https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/LH/LH01000.pdf
• https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/axonopus-fissifolius/
• https://www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/weeds-in-turf/axonopus-fissifolius/