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Description
Setaria Verticillata, commonly known as verticillate bristlegrass or northern pigeon grass, is an annual grass species belonging to the Poaceae family. The plant has a slender stem and can grow up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are flat and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are arranged in spikelets that are green, reddish, or purplish in color. The plant is native to North America but can also be found in other regions, including Europe and Asia.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Setaria |
Appearance
The verticillate bristlegrass has a unique appearance with a slender stem and flat, elongated leaves. The leaves have a bluish-green color and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are arranged in spikelets that are green, reddish, or purplish in color. The spikelets can grow up to 1 inch long and are arranged in a dense cluster at the top of the stem. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a bushy appearance.
Care Guide
Setaria Verticillata is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once every month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant grows in a wide range of soils but prefers well-draining and fertile soil.- Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight for optimal growth.- Hardiness Zones: The plant grows well in hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Setaria Verticillata is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common pests and diseases that can affect the plant include:- Armyworms: These pests can feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing significant damage.- Leaf rust: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and premature death of the leaves.- Smut: This fungal disease can cause the spikelets to become distorted and blackened.
Habitat
Setaria Verticillata is native to North America and can be found in various regions, including Europe and Asia. The plant grows in open areas, including meadows, fields, and disturbed areas. It can also grow in areas with poor soil quality, such as dunes and sandbars.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Setaria Verticillata an annual or perennial plant?
A: Setaria Verticillata is an annual plant.
Q: Can Setaria Verticillata grow in shade?
A: No, Setaria Verticillata requires full sunlight for optimal growth.
Q: How often should I water Setaria Verticillata?
A: Water the plant moderately, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Setaria Verticillata?
A: The hardiness zone for Setaria Verticillata is 5 to 9.
Related Plants
– Setaria Italica- Setaria Parviflora- Setaria Faberi- Setaria Pumila
References
– USDA Plants Database: https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=SEVE7- University of Wisconsin-Madison: https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/weedsci/2016/08/19/verticillate-bristlegrass-setaria-verticillata/- The Spruce: https://www.thespruce.com/verticillate-bristlegrass-setaria-verticillata-3972378
