Chasmanthium Laxum

Description

Chasmanthium Laxum, commonly known as Slender Spike Woodoats, is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the southeastern United States. This ornamental grass produces beautiful airy, green flowers that turn a bronze color in the fall. It has a clumping growth habit and can grow up to three feet tall and two feet wide.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Slender Spike Woodoats has long and slender leaves that are about a half-inch wide and a foot long. The leaves are green with a blue-gray tint and have a noticeable white midrib. Its flowers are green to bronze and are produced in early summer. The inflorescence is open and airy and can reach up to 18 inches long. The seed heads are flat and oval-shaped and turn a bronze color in the fall.

Care Guide

Chasmanthium Laxum is an easy-to-care-for plant that can grow well in a wide range of soil and light conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for your Slender Spike Woodoats:

• Water: This plant prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate drought once established.
• Fertilization: Chasmanthium Laxum does not require fertilization, but you can fertilize it in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer if desired.
• Soil: This plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Chasmanthium Laxum prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate water.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Chasmanthium Laxum is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases if grown in wet conditions. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Habitat

Chasmanthium Laxum is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Chasmanthium Laxum deer resistant?

A: Yes, this plant is deer resistant.

Q: How do I propagate Chasmanthium Laxum?

A: You can propagate this plant by dividing the clumps in the spring or fall.

Q: Can I grow Chasmanthium Laxum in a container?

A: Yes, you can grow this plant in a container. Ensure that the container has good drainage and that the soil is kept moist.

Q: Can I use Chasmanthium Laxum for erosion control?

A: Yes, this plant is suitable for erosion control due to its strong root system.

Related Plants

• Chasmanthium Latifolium
• Chasmanthium Nitidum
• Chasmanthium sessiliflorum

References

• “Chasmanthium Laxum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l960.
• “Chasmanthium Laxum.” North Carolina State University, NC State Extension, 2021, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/chasmanthium-laxum/.
• “Chasmanthium Laxum.” Plant Finder, Garden Design, 2021, www.gardendesign.com/plants/chasmanthium-laxum.