Echinochloa

Description

Echinochloa is a genus of annual and perennial grasses found in various habitats, including wetlands, fields, and disturbed areas. These grasses are commonly known as barnyard grass, cockspur, and jungle rice. They belong to the Poaceae family, which is one of the largest plant families and includes important cereal crops, such as rice, wheat, and corn.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Echinochloa grasses can grow up to 2 meters tall and have long, narrow leaves. They produce spikes of flowers that can range from green to purplish in color. The spikes can be compact or loosely arranged and can contain hundreds of seeds. The seeds are small and oval-shaped, and can be dispersed by wind, water, or animals.

Care Guide

Echinochloa grasses are adaptable and can grow in different types of soil, but prefer moist, fertile soil. They also require full sun to grow well. Watering should be done regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilization can be done with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Echinochloa grasses are hardy and can grow in USDA zones 3-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Echinochloa grasses can be affected by various pests and diseases, including grasshoppers, armyworms, leaf smuts, and rusts. These can cause damage to the leaves, stems, and flowers, and reduce the growth and yield of the plants. Proper maintenance and timely application of pesticides can help prevent or control these problems.

Habitat

Echinochloa grasses are found in various habitats, including wetlands, fields, and disturbed areas. They can tolerate flooding and grow well in areas with high moisture content. They can also grow in dry areas if sufficient water is available. Echinochloa grasses are native to tropical and subtropical regions, but have been introduced to other parts of the world.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the best soil type for Echinochloa grasses?

A: Echinochloa grasses prefer moist, fertile soil, but can grow in different types of soil.

Q: Can Echinochloa grasses tolerate flooding?

A: Yes, Echinochloa grasses can tolerate flooding and grow well in areas with high moisture content.

Q: What pests and diseases can affect Echinochloa grasses?

A: Grasshoppers, armyworms, leaf smuts, and rusts can affect Echinochloa grasses.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Echinochloa grasses?

A: Echinochloa grasses are hardy and can grow in USDA zones 3-11.

Related Plants

• Digitaria
• Panicum
• Setaria
• Sorghum

References

• Barkworth ME, Capels KM, Long S, Piep MB. 2003. Magnoliophyta: Commelinidae (in part): Poaceae, part 2. Oxford University Press.
• Hitchcock AS. 1951. Manual of the grasses of the United States. USDA Miscellaneous Publication No. 200.
• National Park Service. 2021. Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv. Barnyard grass. Accessed 23 August 2021. https://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/ecru1.htm