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Description
Eragrostis Spectabilis, commonly known as Purple Love Grass, is a warm-season perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to North America and commonly found in the eastern and central parts of the United States. This grass is known for its stunning purple blooms that appear in late summer and early fall, making it a popular ornamental grass for landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Eragrostis |
Appearance
Eragrostis Spectabilis grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has narrow, arching leaves that are bluish-green in color and about 1/4 inch wide. The leaves grow from a central clump and form a dense, rounded mound. In late summer and early fall, the grass produces beautiful, airy panicles of small, purplish-pink flowers that rise above the foliage. The flowers turn tan as they mature, and the seed heads remain ornamental throughout the winter.
Care Guide
Eragrostis Spectabilis is a low-maintenance grass that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of this beautiful plant:- Water: This grass prefers well-drained soil and doesn’t require much watering once established. Water deeply once a week during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.- Soil: This grass prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. If your soil is heavy, mix in some sand or perlite to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Eragrostis Spectabilis prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: This grass is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eragrostis Spectabilis is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot in humid conditions. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Eragrostis Spectabilis is native to North America and can be found in prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers dry to mesic soils and can tolerate drought and heat.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eragrostis Spectabilis deer resistant?
A: Yes, this grass is deer resistant.
Q: Can Eragrostis Spectabilis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this grass can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its roots.
Q: When should I prune Eragrostis Spectabilis?
A: Cut back the dead foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can Eragrostis Spectabilis be divided?
A: Yes, this grass can be divided in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
– Eragrostis curvula- Eragrostis frankii- Eragrostis pectinacea- Eragrostis trichodes
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden: Eragrostis spectabilis- University of Wisconsin-Madison: Eragrostis spectabilis- North Carolina State University: Eragrostis spectabilis
