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Description
Bromus Catharticus, commonly known as rescue grass, is a species of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is an annual or perennial grass that often grows up to 1.5 meters tall. Rescue grass is native to South America but is widely distributed in other parts of the world. It has become naturalized in many areas, including the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Bromus |
| Species | Bromus Catharticus |
Appearance
Rescue grass has green or bluish-green blades that grow up to 60 centimeters long and 5-15 millimeters wide. It has a large, open panicle with branches that spread out horizontally, bearing spikelets that are about 10 millimeters long. The spikelets have awns that are 2-10 centimeters long and are bent at the base. The plant’s stems are slender and erect, often branching near the base. The roots are fibrous and shallow.
Care Guide
Rescue grass grows well in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers soils that are slightly acidic. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Rescue grass is hardy in USDA zones 7 through 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rescue grass is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including armyworms, cutworms, and aphids. It can also be affected by rust, leaf spot, and root rot. Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate measures to control them.
Habitat
Rescue grass is commonly found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides, pastures, and abandoned fields. It also grows in open woodlands and along riverbanks. It is tolerant of a wide range of conditions and is often used for erosion control and as a forage crop.
Question and Answer
Q: Is rescue grass a good forage crop?
A: Yes, it is often used as a forage crop for livestock.
Q: Can rescue grass be invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some areas and may require management to prevent it from spreading.
Q: Is rescue grass drought-tolerant?
A: It is moderately drought-tolerant but prefers moist soil.
Q: Is rescue grass poisonous to humans or animals?
A: No, it is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Related Plants
- Bromus Carinatus
- Bromus Hordeaceus
- Bromus Inermis
- Bromus Madritensis
References
- USDA Plants Database: Bromus Catharticus
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Bromus Catharticus
- Australian Government: Bromus Catharticus
