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Description
Paspalum Scrobiculatum, commonly known as Kodo Millet or Rice Grass, is a type of millet that belongs to the Poaceae family. This annual plant is native to tropical Africa and Asia, and it has been cultivated for thousands of years. Paspalum Scrobiculatum is widely grown in India, where it is considered a staple food in some regions. The plant can reach a height of 1.5 to 2 meters and has a lifespan of up to 150 days.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Paspalum |
Appearance
Paspalum Scrobiculatum has a slender stem, which can be either erect or drooping. The leaves are long and narrow, with a green color and a slightly rough texture. The inflorescence is a panicle that can be up to 30 cm long and contains numerous spikelets. Each spikelet has one to three seeds, which are small and round. The color of the seeds can vary from light yellow to dark brown.
Care Guide
Paspalum Scrobiculatum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you grow it successfully:- Water: Paspalum Scrobiculatum requires regular watering, especially during the germination and growth stages. However, make sure not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: Paspalum Scrobiculatum prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Make sure to add organic matter to the soil before planting.- Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to grow properly. Make sure to plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Paspalum Scrobiculatum is a warm-weather plant that thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Paspalum Scrobiculatum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues, such as:- Birds: Birds can eat the seeds of the plant, which can reduce the yield.- Fungal diseases: Paspalum Scrobiculatum can be affected by leaf spot and sheath blight, which are fungal diseases that can cause yellowing, wilting, and death of the plant.- Insects: The plant can be attacked by aphids, mites, and grasshoppers, which can cause damage to the leaves and stems.
Habitat
Paspalum Scrobiculatum is a tropical plant that grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and cultivated fields. The plant prefers warm temperatures and high humidity, and it can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Paspalum Scrobiculatum a good source of nutrition?
A: Yes, Paspalum Scrobiculatum is a nutritious plant that contains high levels of protein, fiber, and minerals such as iron and calcium.
Q: Can Paspalum Scrobiculatum be used as a gluten-free alternative to wheat?
A: Yes, Paspalum Scrobiculatum is naturally gluten-free and can be used as a substitute for wheat in many recipes.
Q: How long does it take for Paspalum Scrobiculatum to mature?
A: Paspalum Scrobiculatum typically matures in 90 to 120 days after planting.
Q: How can I store Paspalum Scrobiculatum seeds?
A: To store Paspalum Scrobiculatum seeds, make sure they are completely dry and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Related Plants
Here are some plants related to Paspalum Scrobiculatum:- Paspalum Distichum- Paspalum Notatum- Paspalum Vaginatum- Paspalum Conjugatum- Paspalum Dilatatum
References
– “Paspalum scrobiculatum.” Plantwise Knowledge Bank. CABI, 2021. https://www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/59686- “Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum Linn.) cultivation and utilization.” Indian Council of Agricultural Research. http://www.icar.org.in/files/techbulletin/Kodo_Millet.pdf- “Paspalum scrobiculatum.” Feedipedia. INRAE, 2019. https://www.feedipedia.org/node/292
