Contents
Description
Eragrostis Variabilis, also known as variable love grass, is a perennial grass that is commonly found in North America. This grass typically grows in clumps and can reach up to 3 feet tall. It features narrow leaves that are typically less than 1/8 inch wide and can vary in color from blue-green to gray-green. The seed heads of this plant are typically purplish-red in color and can be up to 6 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Eragrostis |
Appearance
Eragrostis Variabilis has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other grasses. Its narrow leaves and purplish-red seed heads make it a popular choice for ornamental planting. This grass typically grows to be around 3 feet tall and forms clumps that can spread up to 3 feet wide. Its leaves can vary in color from blue-green to gray-green, and are typically less than 1/8 inch wide. The seed heads of this plant are typically purplish-red in color and can be up to 6 inches long.
Care Guide
Eragrostis Variabilis is a hardy grass that requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive on natural rainfall. However, it will benefit from occasional watering during periods of extended drought.
- Fertilization: This grass does not require fertilization and can survive in poor soil conditions.
- Soil: Eragrostis Variabilis can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, sand, and loam.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Eragrostis Variabilis can grow in zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eragrostis Variabilis is a hardy grass that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by the following:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause circular spots to appear on the leaves of the plant. It can be treated with a fungicide.
- Smut: This fungal disease can cause black, powdery growths to appear on the seed heads of the plant. It can be treated with a fungicide.
- Mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves of the plant to turn yellow and can be treated with an insecticide.
Habitat
Eragrostis Variabilis is commonly found in North America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and pastures. This plant prefers well-drained soils and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and can survive on natural rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eragrostis Variabilis a good choice for ornamental planting?
A: Yes, Eragrostis Variabilis is a popular choice for ornamental planting due to its unique appearance.
Q: Does Eragrostis Variabilis require fertilization?
A: No, Eragrostis Variabilis does not require fertilization and can survive in poor soil conditions.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Eragrostis Variabilis?
A: Eragrostis Variabilis is resistant to most pests and diseases, but can occasionally be affected by leaf spot, smut, and mites.
Q: What is the typical height of Eragrostis Variabilis?
A: Eragrostis Variabilis typically grows to be around 3 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Eragrostis curvula
- Eragrostis tef
- Eragrostis cilianensis
References
- Bonham, C. D. (2013). Dryland wildflowers of the western plains. University of Texas Press.
- USDA. (n.d.). Eragrostis variabilis. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ERVA2
- Wilkinson, K. M. (2003). Wildflowers of Texas. University of Texas Press.
