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Description
Panicum Amarum, also known as bitter panicgrass or coastal panicgrass, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to the eastern coast of North America, particularly in coastal areas from Massachusetts to Florida, but it can also be found in other regions of the world. This plant is known for its tolerance to salt and drought, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens and landscapes. It is also commonly used for erosion control, as its deep roots can help stabilize soil.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Panicum |
Appearance
Panicum Amarum can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are narrow and can range from blue-green to gray-green in color. The plant produces small, creamy-white flowers in the summer that are held in branching clusters. One of the distinguishing features of Panicum Amarum is its seed heads, which are compact and cylindrical, with a purplish tint. The seeds are small and round, with a light brown color.
Care Guide
Water: Panicum Amarum is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions. However, it will benefit from occasional watering during long periods of drought.Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, but it will benefit from a light application of slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.Soil: Panicum Amarum prefers well-draining, sandy soil. It can tolerate some salt content in the soil, making it a good choice for coastal gardens.Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun, but it can also tolerate some shade.Hardiness Zones: Panicum Amarum is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Panicum Amarum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust, a fungal disease that causes yellow-orange spots on the leaves. To prevent rust, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Panicum Amarum is found in coastal areas, including dunes, beaches, and salt marshes. It can also be found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and fields. This plant is an important component of coastal ecosystems, providing habitat and food for wildlife.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Panicum Amarum a good choice for erosion control?
A: Yes, Panicum Amarum has deep roots that can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.Q: Can Panicum Amarum tolerate salt in the soil?
A: Yes, Panicum Amarum is tolerant to salt and can grow in coastal areas with high salt content.Q: Does Panicum Amarum require fertilizer?
A: No, Panicum Amarum does not require fertilizer, but it can benefit from a light application of slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Panicum Amarum?
A: Panicum Amarum is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Related Plants
– Panicum Virgatum- Panicum Miliaceum- Panicum Maximum- Panicum Capillare- Panicum Hallii
References
– USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Panicum amarum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PAAM5- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. (n.d.). Panicum amarum. Retrieved from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PAAM5
