Digitaria Ciliaris

Description

Digitaria Ciliaris is a grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is commonly known as Southern Crabgrass, Coastal Crabgrass, and Tropical Crabgrass. This grass species is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, but it has been introduced in other areas as a weed. It is an annual plant that grows up to 100 cm tall and can produce seeds within 3 to 4 weeks after germination.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Digitaria Ciliaris has a thin stem that can grow up to 100 cm tall. Its leaves are up to 15 cm long and 1 cm wide, and they are green or purple. The inflorescence is a panicle that can be up to 30 cm long and has numerous branches. The flowers are arranged in pairs along the branches, and they are green or purple. The seeds are small and brown, and they are enclosed in a spikelet.

Care Guide

Digitaria Ciliaris is a low-maintenance grass species that can grow in a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: This grass species can tolerate drought, but it grows best with regular watering. Water it once a week, or more often if the soil is dry.
• Fertilization: Digitaria Ciliaris does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth.
• Soil: This grass species can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers well-draining, fertile soil. If your soil is poor, add organic matter such as compost or manure.
• Sunlight: Digitaria Ciliaris prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: This grass species can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Digitaria Ciliaris is not commonly affected by pests and diseases, but there are some issues to watch out for:

• Crabgrass Weevil: This pest can cause damage to the grass blades and stems. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
• Fungal Diseases: Digitaria Ciliaris can be affected by various fungal diseases, including rust, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. Use a fungicide to control the infection.

Habitat

Digitaria Ciliaris is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Africa, Asia, and Australia. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including lawns, pastures, roadsides, and disturbed areas. This grass species grows best in warm and humid conditions, and it can tolerate salt spray and flooding.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Digitaria Ciliaris an invasive species?
A: Yes, this grass species can be invasive in some areas where it is not native.

Q: Can Digitaria Ciliaris be used for grazing?
A: Yes, this grass species is palatable and can be used for grazing, but it has low nutritional value.

Q: How can I control the growth of Digitaria Ciliaris in my lawn?
A: You can control the growth of this grass species by mowing it regularly and applying a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring.

Q: Is Digitaria Ciliaris toxic to pets?
A: No, this grass species is not toxic to pets.

Related Plants

• Digitaria Sanguinalis
• Digitaria Exilis
• Digitaria Longiflora
• Digitaria Eriantha

References

• “Digitaria Ciliaris (Retz.) Koeler.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
• “Southern Crabgrass.” USDA Plants Database.
• “Digitaria Ciliaris.” CABI Invasive Species Compendium.