Contents
Description
Setaria Viridis, commonly known as Green Foxtail, is an annual grass species belonging to the Poaceae family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa but can now be found in many parts of the world. Setaria Viridis is widely used in research as a model organism for plant molecular biology and genetics. It is also considered a weed in some agricultural areas due to its fast growth and ability to compete with crops.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Setaria |
Appearance
Setaria Viridis can grow up to 60cm tall and has narrow, green leaves that are around 5-15cm long. The plant produces a cylindrical flower head that can range in color from green to purple. The seeds are small and round, measuring around 1-2mm in diameter. The plant has a shallow root system and is known for its ability to grow in poor soil conditions.
Care Guide
Water: Setaria Viridis requires moderate watering. It is important to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Setaria Viridis does not require fertilizer if grown in rich soil. However, if grown in poor soil conditions, a balanced fertilizer can be added during the growing season.
Soil: Setaria Viridis prefers well-draining soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. It can grow in poor soil conditions but may not produce as well.
Sunlight: Setaria Viridis requires full sun to grow properly. It can tolerate partial shade but may not produce as well.
Hardiness Zones: Setaria Viridis can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Setaria Viridis is generally not affected by many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust and fungal diseases if grown in wet or humid conditions. Insect pests such as aphids and grasshoppers may also feed on the plant.
Habitat
Setaria Viridis can be found growing in many different habitats including fields, meadows, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It prefers dry, open areas but can tolerate a variety of soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Setaria Viridis a perennial plant?
A: No, Setaria Viridis is an annual plant.
Q: Can Setaria Viridis grow in poor soil conditions?
A: Yes, Setaria Viridis can tolerate poor soil conditions but may not produce as well.
Q: What is the preferred growing condition for Setaria Viridis?
A: Setaria Viridis prefers full sun in well-draining soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter.
Q: Is Setaria Viridis used in research?
A: Yes, Setaria Viridis is widely used in research as a model organism for plant molecular biology and genetics.
Related Plants
- Setaria Italica
- Setaria Glauca
- Setaria Megaphylla
- Setaria Palmifolia
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/graminoid/setvir/all.html
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SEVI
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1360138516300364
