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Description
Eleusine Indica, commonly known as Indian goosegrass or yard-grass, is a perennial grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, but it has now spread to other regions as an invasive species. The plant can grow up to 40-60 cm tall, and its leaves are long and narrow, with pointed tips. Its flowers are greenish-white in colour and are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Eleusine |
Appearance
The leaves of Eleusine Indica are long and narrow, with pointed tips, and are about 10-20 cm long and 3-10 mm wide. They are dark green in colour and have a rough texture. The stems are erect and can grow up to 40-60 cm tall. The flowers are greenish-white in colour and are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence. The plant produces small seeds that are brown in colour and are about 2-3 mm long.
Care Guide
Eleusine Indica is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips to care for this plant:- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season.- Soil: The plant grows well in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eleusine Indica is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to some common issues, such as:- Crabgrass: This weed can compete with Eleusine Indica for nutrients and space.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves.- Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots to rot and the plant to wilt.
Habitat
Eleusine Indica is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. It can grow in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas. It is also often found in agricultural fields, lawns, and gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eleusine Indica edible?
A: Yes, Eleusine Indica is edible and is used as a food source in some cultures.
Q: Is Eleusine Indica a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Eleusine Indica has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fever, respiratory infections, and digestive issues.
Q: Can Eleusine Indica be used as a forage crop for livestock?
A: Yes, Eleusine Indica can be used as a forage crop for livestock, as it is high in protein and other nutrients.
Q: Is Eleusine Indica an invasive species?
A: Yes, Eleusine Indica is considered an invasive species in some regions, as it can outcompete native plants and disrupt local ecosystems.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Poaceae family:- Cynodon dactylon (Bermudagrass)- Panicum maximum (Guinea grass)- Pennisetum purpureum (Elephant grass)- Sorghum bicolor (Sorghum)- Zea mays (Maize)
References
– “Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn.” USDA Plants, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ELIN.- “Eleusine indica (Indian goosegrass).” CABI Invasive Species Compendium, www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/20280.- “Eleusine indica.” Floridata, floridata.com/Plants/Poaceae/Eleusine%20indica/1013.
