Dichanthium
Contents
Description
Dichanthium is a genus of grass species that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is commonly referred to as “sorghum grass” due to its close resemblance to sorghum. Dichanthium is native to tropical and subtropical regions and is commonly found in Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. The genus includes several species, with Dichanthium annulatum being the most commonly cultivated.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Dichanthium |
Appearance
Dichanthium grass can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a dense clumping growth habit. Its leaves are long and narrow, with a bluish-green hue. The inflorescence of Dichanthium is a panicle that can grow up to 8 inches long. The panicle is composed of several spikelets, each containing two to six florets. The florets are tiny and have a yellowish-brown hue.
Care Guide
Water: Dichanthium grass requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once every two months during the growing season (spring and summer).Soil: Dichanthium grass prefers well-draining soils. Ensure that the soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.5.Sunlight: Dichanthium grass thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Dichanthium grass is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dichanthium grass is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Additionally, Dichanthium can attract grasshoppers, armyworms, and cutworms.
Habitat
Dichanthium grass is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and open forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dichanthium an invasive species?
A: No, Dichanthium is not considered an invasive species.Q: Can Dichanthium grass survive in cold climates?
A: No, Dichanthium grass is not cold-hardy and cannot survive in climates with temperatures below freezing.Q: How often should I fertilize Dichanthium grass?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once every two months during the growing season (spring and summer).Q: Does Dichanthium grass require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, Dichanthium grass is relatively low-maintenance and requires moderate watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
– Sorghum bicolor (sorghum)- Pennisetum glaucum (pearl millet)- Panicum maximum (Guinea grass)
References
– “Dichanthium.” PlantNet, plantnet.org.- “Dichanthium annulatum.” Feedipedia, feedipedia.org. – “Dichanthium.” Kew Science, kew.org.
