Cynosurus

Description

Cynosurus is a genus of grasses that are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The genus comprises of about 10 species that are commonly known as dogstail grasses. They are perennial grasses that grow up to 60 cm in height.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cynosurus grasses have narrow, flat leaves that are bright green in color. The inflorescences are compact, cylindrical spikes that are approximately 2-8 cm long. The spikes are composed of small spikelets that are arranged in a spiral pattern around the axis of the spike. The spikelets have one floret each and are usually hairy.

Care Guide

Cynosurus grasses are easy to care for and require little maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your dogstail grass healthy:

• Water: Water your Cynosurus grass regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your grass in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Cynosurus grasses prefer well-drained, fertile soils that are slightly acidic.
• Sunlight: These grasses prefer full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Cynosurus grasses grow best in hardiness zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cynosurus grasses are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and smut, as well as insect infestations such as grasshoppers and cutworms. To prevent these problems, keep your grass healthy by following the care guide above.

Habitat

Cynosurus grasses are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. They are commonly found in meadows, pastures, and open woodlands. They prefer well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.

Question and Answer

Q: How do I propagate Cynosurus grass?

A: Cynosurus grass can be propagated by seed or division. Sow the seeds in the spring or fall in well-prepared soil. To divide the grass, dig up a clump and separate it into smaller sections. Replant the sections in well-drained soil.

Q: Can I grow Cynosurus grass in a container?

A: Yes, you can grow Cynosurus grass in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the roots and the soil is well-drained.

Q: Is Cynosurus grass invasive?

A: No, Cynosurus grass is not considered invasive. However, it may self-seed and spread in the right conditions.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Cynosurus grass?

A: Fertilize your Cynosurus grass in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.

Related Plants

• Poa
• Briza
• Festuca
• Lolium
• Phleum

References

• “Cynosurus.” Flora of North America. Accessed 20 April 2021. https://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=107970
• “Cynosurus.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 20 April 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CYNOU
• “Cynosurus.” RHS Plants. Accessed 20 April 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/search-results?form-mode=false&query=Cynosurus&submit=Search