Contents
Description
Paspalum is a genus of plants that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, but some species can also be found in temperate areas. Paspalum is a perennial grass that is commonly used for grazing, forage, and turfgrass. It is also used in erosion control, wetland restoration, and water filtration.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Paspalum |
Appearance
Paspalum has a wide range of species, and their appearance can vary greatly. Generally, it has a tufted or creeping growth habit, with long, narrow leaves that are smooth or hairy. The inflorescence can be spike-like or branched, with flowers that are arranged in pairs or threes. The flowers are typically small and inconspicuous, with brown or green color.
Care Guide
Paspalum is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your Paspalum healthy:
Water: Paspalum requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep roots.
Fertilization: Fertilize Paspalum with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to excessive growth and thatch buildup.
Soil: Paspalum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey.
Sunlight: Paspalum thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Paspalum can grow in a wide range of hardiness zones, from 4 to 11, depending on the species.
Common Pests & Diseases
Paspalum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common issues that can affect it include:
Armyworms: These caterpillars can cause significant damage to Paspalum leaves and stems. They can be controlled with insecticides or biological controls, such as parasitic wasps.
Fungal diseases: Paspalum can be susceptible to various fungal diseases, such as brown patch, dollar spot, and rust. These can be controlled with fungicides or preventative measures, such as proper watering and fertilization.
Habitat
Paspalum is a versatile plant that can grow in a range of habitats, from wetlands to uplands. It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, but some species can also grow in temperate areas. Paspalum can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey, and can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Paspalum safe for pets?
A: Paspalum is generally safe for pets to eat, but some species can cause digestive issues if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can I grow Paspalum in a container?
A: Yes, Paspalum can be grown in a container, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I mow Paspalum?
A: Paspalum should be mowed regularly to maintain a healthy turf. The frequency of mowing depends on the species and the desired height, but generally, it should be mowed every 7-10 days.
Q: Can Paspalum tolerate saltwater?
A: Some species of Paspalum, such as seashore paspalum, can tolerate saltwater and are commonly used for coastal erosion control and golf course turf.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Paspalum:
- Buffalograss
- Bermudagrass
- Zoysiagrass
- Fescue
- Ryegrass
References
- “Paspalum.” The Plant List. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021.
- “Paspalum.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021.
- “Seashore Paspalum.” TurfFiles. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021.
