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Description
Melica Onoei, also known as Onoe’s melic grass, is a species of perennial grass native to Japan. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance. The grass grows up to 60 centimeters in height and produces thin, green leaves that are about 10-15 centimeters long. The inflorescence appears in summer and consists of small, spike-like panicles that are about 10-15 centimeters long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Melica |
Appearance
Melica Onoei is a beautiful grass that adds an elegant touch to any garden or landscape. It has thin, green leaves that grow from the base of the plant and form a clump. The leaves are about 10-15 centimeters long and 2-4 millimeters wide. The inflorescence appears in summer and consists of small, spike-like panicles that are about 10-15 centimeters long. The panicles are initially green but turn a beautiful golden color as they mature. The seeds are small and brown.
Care Guide
Melica Onoei is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Melica Onoei:- Water: Melica Onoei prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water deeply once a week during dry spells.- Fertilization: Melica Onoei does not require much fertilizer. You can apply a balanced fertilizer once in early spring.- Soil: Melica Onoei prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.- Sunlight: Melica Onoei prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness zones: Melica Onoei is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melica Onoei is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases. These diseases can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation around the plant. Melica Onoei can also be affected by grasshoppers, which can chew on the leaves and cause damage. You can control grasshoppers by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Melica Onoei is native to Japan and is commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and forests. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Melica Onoei be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Melica Onoei can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Melica Onoei spread?
A: Yes, Melica Onoei can spread by underground rhizomes. However, it is not invasive and is easy to control.
Q: When should I prune Melica Onoei?
A: You do not need to prune Melica Onoei. However, you can remove the spent inflorescence after it has turned brown to tidy up the plant.
Q: How often should I water Melica Onoei?
A: Melica Onoei prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Melica Onoei:- Melica altissima- Melica ciliata- Melica uniflora- Melica transsilvanica
References
– “Melica Onoei.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a924.- “Melica Onoei.” Plant Lust, www.plantlust.com/plants/melica-onoei/.- “Melica Onoei.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/150794/melica-onoei/details.
