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Description
Sorghum Nitidum, also known as glossy sorghum or shiny sorghum, is a species of grass in the Poaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa but can also be found in other parts of the world such as Asia, Australia, and the Americas. Sorghum Nitidum is an annual grass that grows up to 2.5 meters tall and has a diameter of up to 3 cm. It has a fibrous root system and a hollow stem that is coated with a waxy substance that gives it a glossy appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Sorghum |
Appearance
Sorghum Nitidum has long, slender leaves that are blue-green in color. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and can grow up to 60 cm long and 2 cm wide. The inflorescence is a large, dense panicle that can grow up to 60 cm long and 25 cm wide. The panicle is made up of many small flowers that are arranged in groups of three. The flowers are greenish-white in color and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Sorghum Nitidum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand high temperatures, making it an ideal plant for arid climates. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Sorghum Nitidum does not require much water and can survive on rainfall alone. However, if you live in a dry climate, you may need to water it occasionally.
- Fertilization: Sorghum Nitidum does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year to promote growth.
- Soil: Sorghum Nitidum can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 8.0.
- Sunlight: Sorghum Nitidum prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Sorghum Nitidum can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sorghum Nitidum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following pests and diseases:
- Armyworms: Armyworms can feed on the leaves of Sorghum Nitidum, causing significant damage.
- Corn earworms: Corn earworms can also feed on the leaves of Sorghum Nitidum.
- Fungal diseases: Sorghum Nitidum can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot.
Habitat
Sorghum Nitidum is native to tropical Africa but can also be found in other parts of the world such as Asia, Australia, and the Americas. It can grow in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas. Sorghum Nitidum is often used for forage, erosion control, and as a source of fuel and fiber.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sorghum Nitidum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Sorghum Nitidum can be grown in containers, but it may not grow as tall as it would in the ground.
Q: Is Sorghum Nitidum edible?
A: Sorghum Nitidum is not commonly grown for human consumption, but it can be used as forage for livestock.
Q: How long does it take for Sorghum Nitidum to mature?
A: Sorghum Nitidum typically matures in 90 to 120 days.
Q: Can Sorghum Nitidum tolerate frost?
A: Sorghum Nitidum is not frost-tolerant and should be grown in areas with mild winters.
Related Plants
- Sorghum bicolor
- Sorghum halepense
- Sorghum sudanense
- Sorghastrum nutans
References
- “Sorghum Nitidum.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 23 Feb. 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/sorghum-nitidum.
- “Sorghum Nitidum (Broomcorn Millet).” CABI. Accessed 23 Feb. 2021. https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/50839.
- “Sorghum Nitidum (Glossy Sorghum).” Feedipedia. Accessed 23 Feb. 2021. https://www.feedipedia.org/node/610.
