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Description
Bouteloua Hirsuta, also known as hairy grama or hairy mesquite, is a perennial native grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This grass is commonly found in the United States, specifically in the Great Plains region, and also in northern Mexico. It is a drought-tolerant grass that thrives in dry and arid climates. Bouteloua Hirsuta can grow up to 1-2 feet in height and has a spread of up to 1-2 feet as well. It is a warm-season grass that produces seeds in the late summer, which are a food source for birds and small mammals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Bouteloua |
Appearance
Bouteloua Hirsuta has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other grasses. The grass has a clumping growth habit, which means that it grows in small bunches rather than spreading out like other grasses. Its leaves are narrow and long, with a blue-green color. The leaves of the grass are covered in fine hairs, which give it a soft, fuzzy texture. The grass produces seed heads in the late summer, which are about 2-3 inches in length and have a purplish-brown color. The seed heads are also covered in fine hairs, which gives them a fluffy appearance.
Care Guide
Bouteloua Hirsuta is a low-maintenance grass that requires minimal care. Here is a guide to help you take care of your Bouteloua Hirsuta:
- Water: This grass is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. However, if there is a prolonged period of drought, you may need to water the grass to keep it from drying out.
- Fertilization: Bouteloua Hirsuta does not require regular fertilization. If you want to fertilize the grass, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: This grass prefers well-draining soil that is not too rich in nutrients. If your soil is too heavy or clay-like, you may need to amend it with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Bouteloua Hirsuta prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. If the grass is planted in an area with partial shade, it may not produce as many seed heads.
- Hardiness Zones: This grass is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bouteloua Hirsuta is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common problems that may affect this grass:
- Armyworms: Armyworms are caterpillars that can feed on the leaves of the grass. If you notice armyworms on your grass, you can use an insecticide to control them.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause brown spots on the leaves of the grass. If you notice leaf spot on your grass, you can use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Bouteloua Hirsuta is commonly found in the Great Plains region of the United States, specifically in areas with dry and arid climates. It is a grass that is well-adapted to hot and dry weather and can survive in areas with low rainfall. This grass is also found in northern Mexico, where it grows in desert and semi-desert regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bouteloua Hirsuta a good grass for erosion control?
A: Yes, Bouteloua Hirsuta is a good grass for erosion control. Its deep roots help to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Q: How often should I water Bouteloua Hirsuta?
A: Bouteloua Hirsuta is a drought-tolerant grass and does not require regular watering. However, if there is a prolonged period of drought, you may need to water the grass to keep it from drying out.
Q: Can I plant Bouteloua Hirsuta in a shady area?
A: Bouteloua Hirsuta prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. If the grass is planted in an area with partial shade, it may not produce as many seed heads.
Q: Is Bouteloua Hirsuta a good grass for grazing animals?
A: Yes, Bouteloua Hirsuta is a good grass for grazing animals. It is a nutritious grass that is palatable to livestock.
Related Plants
- Bouteloua curtipendula (sideoats grama)
- Bouteloua gracilis (blue grama)
- Bouteloua dactyloides (buffalograss)
References
- “Bouteloua hirsuta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=274514.
- “Hairy Grama (Bouteloua hirsuta).” USDA NRCS, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BOHI2.
- “Bouteloua hirsuta.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=BOHI2.
