Contents
Description
Fimbristylis Spadicea, commonly known as umbrella grass, is a perennial plant in the Cyperaceae family. It is native to southeastern Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, and is often found in wetlands, marshes, and along stream banks. The plant has a unique appearance with thin, triangular stems that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It produces small, brown flowers that are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Fimbristylis |
Appearance
The umbrella grass has thin, triangular stems that can grow up to 1 meter tall. The leaves are also thin and can be up to 30 cm long. The flowers are small and brown, and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant is often mistaken for a type of grass, but is actually a member of the sedge family. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate wet soil conditions, making it an ideal choice for wetland gardens or around water features.
Care Guide
Umbrella grass is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil damp. However, be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and is well-draining. If planting in a container, use a soil mix that is specifically designed for bog plants.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Umbrella grass is generally pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not water the plant excessively.
Habitat
Umbrella grass is native to southeastern Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, and is often found in wetlands, marshes, and along stream banks. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate wet soil conditions, making it an ideal choice for wetland gardens or around water features.
Question and Answer
Q: Can umbrella grass be grown indoors?
A: Yes, umbrella grass can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is kept in a well-draining soil mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize my umbrella grass?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can umbrella grass be divided?
A: Yes, umbrella grass can be divided in the spring before new growth begins. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the plant into smaller sections and replant in well-draining soil.
Q: How tall can umbrella grass grow?
A: Umbrella grass can grow up to 1 meter tall.
Related Plants
– Fimbristylis dichotoma- Fimbristylis miliacea- Fimbristylis puberula
References
– The Plant List (2013). Fimbristylis spadicea. Available at: http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-245990 [Accessed 14 May 2021].- Missouri Botanical Garden (2021). Fimbristylis spadicea. Available at: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287447&isprofile=0& [Accessed 14 May 2021].- Burke Museum (n.d.). Fimbristylis spadicea. Available at: https://www.burkemuseum.org/collections-and-research/biology/herbarium/vascular-plants/search?taxon=fimbristylis+spadicea&taxauthid=1&cl=All&locid=All&submit=Search [Accessed 14 May 2021].
