Brachyelytrum
Contents
Description
Brachyelytrum, commonly known as the “short-husked rice grass,” is a genus of perennial grasses belonging to the Poaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically the eastern and central regions of the United States and Canada. Brachyelytrum grasses typically grow in large clumps, with their stems reaching up to three feet in height. They are known for their attractive spikelets, which are densely arranged in cylindrical or oblong-shaped clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Brachyelytrum |
Appearance
Brachyelytrum grasses have a unique appearance that sets them apart from other grasses. Their stems are slender and erect, with a blue-green hue that gives them an attractive appearance. The leaves are long and narrow, with pointed tips and a smooth texture. The most distinctive feature of Brachyelytrum grasses is their spikelets, which are tightly packed and arranged in cylindrical or oblong clusters. These spikelets are usually a pale green or beige color, and they have a distinct bristle emerging from the top.
Care Guide
Brachyelytrum grasses are low-maintenance plants that are relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep them healthy and thriving:- Water: Brachyelytrum grasses prefer moist soil, so make sure to water them regularly. However, be careful not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Brachyelytrum grasses do not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is usually sufficient.- Soil: Brachyelytrum grasses prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can thrive in a range of soil types, but they prefer slightly acidic soil.- Sunlight: Brachyelytrum grasses prefer partial shade or filtered sunlight. They can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates.- Hardiness Zones: Brachyelytrum grasses are cold-hardy and can thrive in USDA hardiness zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Brachyelytrum grasses can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones to watch out for:- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots to appear on the leaves of Brachyelytrum grasses.- Blight: This bacterial disease can cause the leaves of Brachyelytrum grasses to turn yellow or brown and die off.- Grasshoppers: These insects can feed on the leaves and stems of Brachyelytrum grasses, causing damage to the plant.- Cutworms: These caterpillars can cut through the stems of Brachyelytrum grasses, causing them to wilt and die.
Habitat
Brachyelytrum grasses are native to North America and are typically found in moist areas such as wet meadows, stream banks, and floodplains. They prefer partially shaded areas but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Brachyelytrum grasses are cold-hardy and can survive in a range of soils, including sandy and clay soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Brachyelytrum grasses invasive?
A: No, Brachyelytrum grasses are not considered invasive.
Q: Can Brachyelytrum grasses be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Brachyelytrum grasses can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Brachyelytrum grasses be fertilized?
A: Brachyelytrum grasses do not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is usually sufficient.
Q: Are Brachyelytrum grasses drought-tolerant?
A: Brachyelytrum grasses prefer moist soil and are not particularly drought-tolerant. However, they can survive short periods of drought if they are well-established.
Related Plants
– Elymus- Leymus- Calamagrostis- Deschampsia- Festuca
References
– “Brachyelytrum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m820.- “Brachyelytrum.” Flora of North America, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=104760.- “Brachyelytrum.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Poaceae/Brachyelytrum/.
