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Description
Cenchrus Purpureus, also known as Purple Sandgrass or South African Sandbur, is a warm-season annual grass that is commonly used for pasture, hay, and erosion control. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is native to southern Africa. The plant has a deep root system that helps it withstand drought conditions. It can grow up to 1 meter tall and has purple to reddish-brown seed heads that are 2-6 cm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Cenchrus |
Appearance
Cenchrus Purpureus has a deep root system that helps it withstand drought conditions. The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and has purple to reddish-brown seed heads that are 2-6 cm long. The leaves are green and narrow, and the stems are slender and erect. The seed heads are covered in sharp spines that can cause injury to animals and humans.
Care Guide
Cenchrus Purpureus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Purple Sandgrass:- Water: Cenchrus Purpureus is drought-tolerant and can survive on little water. However, it will grow better if it receives regular watering.- Fertilization: Purple Sandgrass does not require much fertilization. A light application of nitrogen-based fertilizer in the spring can help improve growth.- Soil: Cenchrus Purpureus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soils, from sandy to clay.- Sunlight: Purple Sandgrass prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: Cenchrus Purpureus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cenchrus Purpureus is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf rust and stem rust. These diseases can be controlled by applying a fungicide. Insects such as grasshoppers and cutworms can also be a problem, but they can be controlled with insecticides.
Habitat
Cenchrus Purpureus is native to southern Africa but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas. It is commonly used for pasture, hay, and erosion control.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cenchrus Purpureus invasive?
A: Cenchrus Purpureus can be invasive in some areas, especially in disturbed areas. However, it is not considered a major invasive species.
Q: Can Cenchrus Purpureus be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, Cenchrus Purpureus is commonly used for erosion control due to its deep root system and ability to grow in a variety of soils.
Q: Can Cenchrus Purpureus be used for hay?
A: Yes, Cenchrus Purpureus is commonly used for hay due to its high yield and good quality forage.
Q: Is Cenchrus Purpureus toxic to animals?
A: No, Cenchrus Purpureus is not toxic to animals. However, the sharp spines on the seed heads can cause injury if ingested.
Related Plants
– Cenchrus Setaceus (Foxtail Sandbur)- Cenchrus Longispinus (Southern Sandbur)- Cenchrus Echinatus (Southern Sandspur)
References
– “Cenchrus Purpureus.” USDA NRCS. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CEPU6- “Purple Sandgrass.” University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. https://ucanr.edu/sites/foragelab/files/29521.pdf- “Cenchrus Purpureus.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/cenchrus-purpureus
