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Description
Polypogon Maritimus, commonly known as Sea Beard Grass, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but can also be found in other areas with similar climates. The plant grows up to 60cm tall and has a spread of 30cm. It is characterized by its dense tufts of bright green leaves and its spike-like inflorescences that have a purplish tinge.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Polypogon |
Appearance
Sea Beard Grass has long and narrow leaves that can reach up to 20cm in length. The leaves have a smooth texture and are bright green in color. The inflorescences of Polypogon Maritimus are spike-like and are made up of small, purplish flowers that bloom in the summer months. The plant has a dense, tufted growth habit, with each tuft growing up to 30cm in width. Sea Beard Grass can grow up to 60cm tall, but is typically shorter than this.
Care Guide
Sea Beard Grass is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and moderate moisture levels. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot. Fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring to encourage healthy growth.Sea Beard Grass prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can survive temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Sea Beard Grass is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot. Rust is a fungal disease that appears as orange or red spots on the leaves. Leaf spot is another fungal disease that causes small, brown spots on the leaves. Both diseases can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
Sea Beard Grass is native to the Mediterranean region, but can also be found in other areas with similar climates. It grows well in coastal areas and is often used in erosion control projects. The plant can be found in sandy or rocky soils and is tolerant of salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Polypogon Maritimus drought-tolerant?
A: Sea Beard Grass is moderately drought-tolerant, but it prefers moderate moisture levels.
Q: How often should I fertilize Polypogon Maritimus?
A: Fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring to encourage healthy growth.
Q: Can Sea Beard Grass grow in shade?
A: Sea Beard Grass prefers full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can Polypogon Maritimus tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, Sea Beard Grass is tolerant of salt spray and can be found growing in coastal areas.
Related Plants
- Polypogon Monspeliensis
- Polypogon Interruptus
- Polypogon Lanatus
- Polypogon Viridis
References
- USDA Plants Database: https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?id=POMA3
- Missouri Botanical Garden: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c265
- Gardenia: https://www.gardenia.net/plant/polypogon-maritimus-sea-beard-grass
