Contents
Description
Eragrostis Ciliaris, commonly known as the stinking lovegrass, is a warm-season perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Africa and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States, where it is widely used for grazing, soil conservation, and landscaping. The plant has a robust root system that can grow up to 1.5 meters deep, making it drought-tolerant and capable of adapting to different soil types.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Eragrostis |
Appearance
The Eragrostis Ciliaris plant has a dense, clumping growth habit, and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has narrow, flat leaves that are bluish-green in color and can reach up to 30cm long. The flower spikes are purple, pink, or greenish in color and can grow up to 20cm long. The seeds are small and have a brownish color. The plant has a distinctive odor that is often described as unpleasant.
Care Guide
Eragrostis Ciliaris is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your lovegrass:
- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive on rainfall alone, but watering during dry spells can promote growth.
- Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary, but if you choose to fertilize, use a slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Eragrostis Ciliaris can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eragrostis Ciliaris is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
Eragrostis Ciliaris is native to Africa but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States, where it can be found in the southern and southwestern states. The plant can grow in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas. It is often used for grazing, soil conservation, and landscaping.
Question and Answer
- Q: Is Eragrostis Ciliaris toxic to animals?
A: No, Eragrostis Ciliaris is not toxic to animals and is often used for grazing. - Q: Can Eragrostis Ciliaris grow in sandy soil?
A: Yes, Eragrostis Ciliaris can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy soil. - Q: How often should I water my Eragrostis Ciliaris plant?
A: Eragrostis Ciliaris is drought-tolerant and can survive on rainfall alone, but watering during dry spells can promote growth. - Q: What is the hardiness zone for Eragrostis Ciliaris?
A: Eragrostis Ciliaris can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Eragrostis curvula
- Eragrostis lugens
- Eragrostis mexicana
- Eragrostis pectinacea
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Eragrostis ciliaris. Retrieved August 13, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?id=ERCI
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021, January 1). Stinking lovegrass. Retrieved August 13, 2021, from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ag120
- Wunderlin, R. P., Hansen, B. F., Franck, A. R., Essig, F. B., & Gal, H. (2020). Atlas of Florida Plants. Retrieved August 13, 2021, from http://florida.plantatlas.usf.edu/Plant.aspx?id=1914
