Contents
Description
Cleistogenes Hancei, also known as Hance’s cleistogenes, is a species of perennial grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is native to China, specifically in the provinces of Jiangxi, Hubei, and Sichuan. This grass species typically grows in meadows, forests, and grasslands. It is a low-growing grass that reaches a height of only 20-40cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Cleistogenes |
Appearance
Cleistogenes Hancei has a dense, tufted, and low-growing habit. Its leaves are narrow, linear, and flat, and they can grow up to 15cm long and 1-2mm wide. The leaf sheaths are hairy, while the leaf blades are smooth and glossy. Its inflorescence is a dense panicle that is about 3-10cm long and 1-2cm wide. The spikelets are green to brown, and they contain one to three florets each.
Care Guide
Water
Cleistogenes Hancei prefers moist and well-draining soil. Water it regularly, especially during the hot and dry season. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize Cleistogenes Hancei with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and frequency.
Soil
Cleistogenes Hancei thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH level.
Sunlight
Cleistogenes Hancei prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.
Hardiness Zones
Cleistogenes Hancei is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cleistogenes Hancei is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases, especially if the soil is too moist. To prevent fungal infections, avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Cleistogenes Hancei is native to China, where it grows in meadows, forests, and grasslands. It prefers moist and well-draining soil and typically grows in areas with full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cleistogenes Hancei a good ground cover?
A: Yes, Cleistogenes Hancei is a good ground cover due to its low-growing habit and dense growth.
Q: Can Cleistogenes Hancei grow in containers?
A: Yes, Cleistogenes Hancei can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Cleistogenes Hancei?
A: Fertilize Cleistogenes Hancei with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and frequency.
Q: Does Cleistogenes Hancei have any special water requirements?
A: Cleistogenes Hancei prefers moist and well-draining soil. Water it regularly, especially during the hot and dry season. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Related Plants
Here are some other grass species that are related to Cleistogenes Hancei:- Cleistogenes squarrosa- Cleistogenes gracillima- Cleistogenes songorica- Cleistogenes chinensis
References
– Flora of China. (2010). Cleistogenes Hancei. Flora of China. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=242337334- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Cleistogenes Hancei. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278719&isprofile=0&- Plants of the World Online. (n.d.). Cleistogenes Hancei. Plants of the World Online. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:396492-1
