Contents
Description
Leersia japonica, commonly known as Japanese cutgrass, is a perennial grass species native to eastern Asia. It is commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and swamps. This plant has a unique life cycle in which it produces two different types of stems during different seasons. The first type of stem is tall and erect, reaching up to 3 feet in height, and it emerges in the spring. The second type of stem is shorter and more sprawling, growing up to 2 feet in length, and it emerges in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Leersia |
Appearance
The leaves of Leersia japonica are long and narrow, reaching up to 12 inches in length and 1 inch in width. They are a bright green color and have a glossy sheen. The stems of this plant are hollow and can be either tall and erect or shorter and sprawling, depending on the season. The flowers of L. japonica are small and inconspicuous, appearing in clusters along the stem. They are typically green or brown in color and bloom from late summer to early fall.
Care Guide
Water: L. japonica prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilizer, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth.Soil: Leersia japonica prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.Sunlight: This plant can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, but it prefers partial shade in hot climates.Hardiness Zones: L. japonica is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests and Diseases
Leersia japonica is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. These can be treated with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Leersia japonica is native to eastern Asia, including Japan, Korea, and China. It is commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and swamps, where it grows in dense stands. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and ditches.
Question and Answer
Q: Is L. japonica a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, L. japonica is a good plant for erosion control due to its deep root system.Q: Does L. japonica require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, L. japonica is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established.Q: Can L. japonica be grown in a container?
A: Yes, L. japonica can be grown in a container as long as it is kept moist and receives enough sunlight.Q: Is L. japonica an invasive species?
A: L. japonica can be invasive in certain areas, so it is important to check with your local extension office before planting.
Related Plants
- Leersia hexandra
- Leersia oryzoides
- Leersia virginica
- Leersia lenticularis
References
- “Leersia japonica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 13 Sept. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c948>
- “Leersia japonica.” Plant of the Week. University of Arkansas. Accessed 13 Sept. 2021. <https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-week/leersia-japonica-9-10-10.aspx>
- “Leersia japonica.” Plant Fact Sheet. United States Department of Agriculture. Accessed 13 Sept. 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_leja.pdf>
