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Description
Dactyloctenium Radulans, commonly known as Button Grass or Tropical Finger Grass, is a warm-season perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to various regions in Africa, Asia, and Australia. It is a fast-growing grass that can grow up to 50 cm in height with a spread of 30 cm. It has a shallow root system and can easily adapt to different soil types, making it an ideal choice for lawns, pastures, and erosion control.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Dactyloctenium |
Appearance
The leaves of Dactyloctenium Radulans are narrow, long, and pointed, with a bluish-green color. Its flowers are small and greenish, growing in clusters on the spikes that rise above the foliage. It has a dense and compact growth habit, with a neat appearance that makes it an excellent choice for ornamental purposes. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, from acidic to alkaline, and can thrive in full sun or partial shade.
Care Guide
Water: Dactyloctenium Radulans requires moderate watering during its growing season, but it can tolerate drought conditions once established. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: Dactyloctenium Radulans prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: This grass thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Dactyloctenium Radulans is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dactyloctenium Radulans is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by grasshoppers, aphids, and spider mites. It can also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust, leaf spot, and smut. Proper cultural practices such as adequate watering, fertilization, and sanitation can help prevent pest and disease problems.
Habitat
Dactyloctenium Radulans is a tropical grass that is commonly found in savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands in Africa, Asia, and Australia. It can also be grown as an ornamental grass in gardens, parks, and landscapes. It is a versatile grass that can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, making it an ideal choice for erosion control and land reclamation projects.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dactyloctenium Radulans a good choice for a lawn grass?
A: Yes, Dactyloctenium Radulans can make an excellent lawn grass, especially in warm and humid climates.
Q: How often should I water Dactyloctenium Radulans?
A: Water Dactyloctenium Radulans once a week during its growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Dactyloctenium Radulans tolerate shade?
A: Yes, Dactyloctenium Radulans can tolerate partial shade, but it thrives in full sun.
Q: How can I prevent pest and disease problems in Dactyloctenium Radulans?
A: Proper cultural practices such as adequate watering, fertilization, and sanitation can help prevent pest and disease problems in Dactyloctenium Radulans.
Related Plants
- Dactyloctenium Aegyptium
- Dactyloctenium Scindicum
- Dactyloctenium Polystachyum
References
- “Dactyloctenium Radulans.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/dactyloctrad.htm.
- “Dactyloctenium Radulans.” Tropical Forages. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.tropicalforages.info/key/Forages/Media/Html/Dactyloctenium_radulans.htm.
- “Button Grass.” Australian Native Plants Society. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://anpsa.org.au/d-rad.html.
