Contents
Description
Bothriochloa Barbinodis, commonly known as cane bluestem or bluejoint, is a warm-season perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the central and southern United States, as well as northern Mexico. The plant grows up to 6 feet tall and spreads through rhizomes, forming dense clumps. It has a high tolerance for drought and can survive in a variety of soil types.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Bothriochloa |
Appearance
Bothriochloa Barbinodis has blue-green leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long and 0.5 inches wide. The leaf blades are flat and have a rough texture, while the leaf sheaths are smooth. The plant produces spike-like inflorescences that can reach up to 10 inches long and are purplish or greenish in color. The flowers bloom from June to October and produce small, brownish seeds that are less than 0.2 inches long.
Care Guide
Water: Bothriochloa Barbinodis is drought-tolerant, but it still needs regular watering during periods of prolonged dryness. Water deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water per week.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.Soil: Bothriochloa Barbinodis grows in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.Sunlight: Bothriochloa Barbinodis prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Bothriochloa Barbinodis is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bothriochloa Barbinodis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases. Insects, such as grasshoppers and armyworms, can also feed on the plant.
Habitat
Bothriochloa Barbinodis grows in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, savannas, and roadsides. It is commonly found in the central and southern United States, as well as northern Mexico.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bothriochloa Barbinodis a good choice for erosion control?
A: Yes, Bothriochloa Barbinodis has a deep root system that can help prevent erosion.Q: Does Bothriochloa Barbinodis require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, Bothriochloa Barbinodis is a low-maintenance plant that only requires occasional watering and fertilization.Q: Can Bothriochloa Barbinodis grow in containers?
A: No, Bothriochloa Barbinodis is too large and requires too much space to grow in containers.Q: Does Bothriochloa Barbinodis have any medicinal properties?
A: No, there is no evidence to suggest that Bothriochloa Barbinodis has any medicinal properties.
Related Plants
- Bothriochloa ischaemum
- Bothriochloa laguroides
- Bothriochloa saccharoides
- Bothriochloa springfieldii
References
- USDA Plants Database: Bothriochloa barbinodis
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Bothriochloa barbinodis
- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension: Cane Bluestem
- North Carolina State University Extension: Cane Bluestem
