Eragrostis Secundiflora

Description

Eragrostis Secundiflora, commonly known as Weeping Lovegrass or Tufted Lovegrass, is a warm-season perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant is native to North America, particularly in the southern United States, and is widely cultivated for forage and soil stabilization purposes. It grows up to a height of 3 feet and has long, narrow leaves that are bluish-green in color.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Eragrostis Secundiflora has a clump-forming growth habit and produces tufts of fine-textured foliage that arch gracefully. The leaves are linear in shape, about 1/8 inch wide and can grow up to 2 feet long. The inflorescence is a narrow, branching panicle that grows up to 1 foot long and bears numerous small, spikelet-shaped flowers. The flowers are greenish-white in color and bloom in late summer or early fall. The seeds are tiny and have a brownish color.

Care Guide

Eragrostis Secundiflora is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to take care of your Weeping Lovegrass:

• Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during the growing season. This grass prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a year, preferably in early spring.
• Soil: This grass prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but does best in loamy or sandy soil.
• Sunlight: Eragrostis Secundiflora prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Eragrostis Secundiflora is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to rust, leaf spot, and stem blight. These diseases can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. As for pests, aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest this grass. These can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Eragrostis Secundiflora is found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soils and is commonly found in areas with moderate to low rainfall. It is also used for erosion control and soil stabilization purposes, particularly in disturbed areas such as roadsides and construction sites.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Eragrostis Secundiflora an invasive species?

A: No, Eragrostis Secundiflora is not considered an invasive species. It is a native plant that is widely cultivated for forage and soil stabilization purposes.

Q: Can Eragrostis Secundiflora be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Eragrostis Secundiflora can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. It is best to use a well-draining potting mix and to water the plant regularly.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Eragrostis Secundiflora?

A: You should fertilize your Eragrostis Secundiflora once a year, preferably in early spring. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.

Q: Can Eragrostis Secundiflora be used for hay production?

A: Yes, Eragrostis Secundiflora is commonly used for hay production due to its high forage quality and palatability.

Related Plants

• Eragrostis Curvula
• Eragrostis Tef
• Eragrostis Frankii
• Eragrostis Spectabilis
• Eragrostis Capillaris

References

• “Eragrostis Secundiflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281795&isprofile=0&. Accessed 17 Aug. 2021.
• “Weeping Lovegrass.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/archives/parsons/publications/turfgrass/turfgrass-weeping-lovegrass/. Accessed 17 Aug. 2021.
• “Eragrostis Secundiflora.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ERSE3. Accessed 17 Aug. 2021.