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Description
Eremochloa Ciliaris, commonly known as Buffelgrass, is a perennial grass species native to Africa. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is widely cultivated for forage and erosion control. Buffelgrass is known for its ability to withstand drought, heat, and grazing pressure, making it a popular choice for arid and semi-arid regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Eremochloa |
Appearance
Buffelgrass grows up to three feet tall and has a clumping growth habit. Its leaves are narrow and pointed, measuring up to six inches long and one-fourth inch wide. The leaves are grayish-green in color and have fine hairs on the upper surface. Buffelgrass produces spikes of flowers that are arranged in a panicle shape. The flowers are greenish-yellow in color and appear in the summer months.
Care Guide
Buffelgrass is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips for caring for Buffelgrass:
- Water: Buffelgrass is drought-tolerant and can survive on minimal water. However, it will thrive with occasional deep watering during dry periods.
- Fertilization: Buffelgrass does not require fertilization, but it will benefit from a light application of nitrogen in the spring.
- Soil: Buffelgrass prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: Buffelgrass prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Buffelgrass is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Buffelgrass is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be affected by fungal diseases such as rust and smut, as well as insects such as grasshoppers and armyworms. Proper cultural practices, such as adequate watering and fertilization, can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Buffelgrass is adapted to arid and semi-arid regions and can be found in grasslands, savannas, and scrublands. It is widely cultivated for forage and erosion control, and is often planted in disturbed areas such as roadsides and mining sites. Buffelgrass has also become invasive in some areas, including the southwestern United States, where it outcompetes native vegetation and increases the risk of wildfires.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Buffelgrass poisonous?
A: No, Buffelgrass is not poisonous. However, it may cause bloat in livestock if consumed in large quantities.
Q: Can Buffelgrass be used for landscaping?
A: Yes, Buffelgrass can be used for landscaping in arid and semi-arid regions. It is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate minimal watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should Buffelgrass be watered?
A: Buffelgrass is drought-tolerant and can survive on minimal water. However, it will benefit from occasional deep watering during dry periods.
Q: Is Buffelgrass invasive?
A: Yes, Buffelgrass has become invasive in some areas, including the southwestern United States. It outcompetes native vegetation and increases the risk of wildfires.
Related Plants
- Pennisetum Ciliare
- Bothriochloa Bladhii
- Digitaria Decumbens
- Panicum Virgatum
References
- “Buffelgrass.” USDA Plants Database, https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ERCI.
- “Buffelgrass.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, https://www.desertmuseum.org/programs/buffelgrass.php.
- “Buffelgrass.” The Nature Conservancy, https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/campaigns-and-initiatives/buffelgrass-removal/.
