Contents [hide]
Description
Cenchrus Setaceus, commonly known as the Bristlegrass, is a type of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant is an annual grass, which means that it grows and blooms within a year. It is native to Africa but has been introduced to various parts of the world, including North America, where it is considered as an invasive species.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Cenchrus |
| Species | Setaceus |
Appearance
Cenchrus Setaceus has a clumping growth habit and can grow up to 3 feet tall. The leaves of this plant are long and narrow, and they have sharp edges that can cut through skin. The inflorescences of Cenchrus Setaceus are cylindrical in shape and have a bristly texture, giving the plant its common name. The flowers of this plant are usually pink, purple, or yellow and are arranged in spikes that can reach up to 6 inches in length.
Care Guide
Cenchrus Setaceus is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips to help you take care of this plant:
- Water: Cenchrus Setaceus is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil if you want to promote growth and flowering.
- Soil: Cenchrus Setaceus prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils.
- Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Cenchrus Setaceus is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cenchrus Setaceus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to some fungal diseases, such as rust and smut. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding over-watering. Insects such as aphids, grasshoppers, and armyworms can also feed on this plant, but they are not usually a major problem.
Habitat
Cenchrus Setaceus is native to Africa but has been introduced to various parts of the world, including North America, South America, Asia, and Australia. It is commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and waste areas. This plant can also tolerate a range of soil types and can grow in both wet and dry habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cenchrus Setaceus an invasive species?
A: Yes, Cenchrus Setaceus is considered as an invasive species in some parts of the world, including North America.
Q: Can Cenchrus Setaceus be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, Cenchrus Setaceus can be used for erosion control due to its deep roots that can help stabilize soil.
Q: Does Cenchrus Setaceus have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Cenchrus Setaceus has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and diarrhea.
Q: Can Cenchrus Setaceus be grown as a ornamental grass?
A: Yes, Cenchrus Setaceus can be grown as an ornamental grass due to its unique bristly inflorescences.
Related Plants
- Cenchrus Ciliaris
- Cenchrus Echinatus
- Cenchrus Longispinus
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Cenchrus Setaceus. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CESE3
- Morton, J. F. (1976). Notes on distribution, propagation, and uses of Cenchrus Setaceus (Gramineae). Economic Botany, 30(2), 173-177. doi: 10.1007/BF02860811
- Poisonous Plants of North Carolina. (n.d.). Cenchrus Setaceus. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cenchrus-setaceus/
