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Description
Sphenopholis is a genus of grasses that belongs to the Poaceae or Gramineae family. There are approximately 20 species under this genus, and they are native to different parts of the world, including North America and Asia. The name “Sphenopholis” was derived from two Greek words “sphenos,” which means wedge, and “pholis,” which means scale. This name pertains to the shape of the lemma, which is wedge-shaped.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Sphenopholis |
Appearance
Sphenopholis grasses are typically slender and have a height of about 12-36 inches. They have narrow leaves that are green or blue-green in color. The leaves are usually flat and may have a rough texture. The inflorescence of Sphenopholis is a panicle that can be up to 8 inches long. The panicle has numerous branches that bear spikelets. The spikelets are arranged alternately on the branches and may have a purplish or reddish-brown color. The lemma of the spikelets is wedge-shaped, giving the grass its name.
Care Guide
Sphenopholis grasses are relatively easy to care for, and they can thrive in most conditions. Here are some tips on how to take care of Sphenopholis:- Water: Sphenopholis grasses can tolerate periods of drought, but they need regular watering to thrive. Water the grass deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, in the spring and fall to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Sphenopholis grasses can grow in most soil types, but they prefer well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy and clayey, add organic matter to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Sphenopholis grasses prefer full sun, but they can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Sphenopholis grasses are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sphenopholis grasses are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may occasionally be affected by the following:- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the grass.- Rust: This is another fungal disease that causes orange or yellow spots on the leaves. Rust can be controlled by applying a fungicide.- Cutworms: These are caterpillars that feed on the leaves and stems of the grass. Cutworms can be controlled by applying an insecticide.
Habitat
Sphenopholis grasses are native to different parts of the world, including North America and Asia. They can grow in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. Some species of Sphenopholis are adapted to wet habitats, while others can grow in dry and sandy soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sphenopholis a good choice for a lawn?
A: Sphenopholis is not commonly used as a lawn grass, as it is not as dense and uniform as other grass species. However, it can be used in low-traffic areas or as a groundcover.
Q: Can Sphenopholis be propagated by seeds?
A: Yes, Sphenopholis can be propagated by seeds. The seeds should be sown in the spring, and they will germinate in 10-14 days.
Q: Are Sphenopholis grasses invasive?
A: Sphenopholis grasses are not considered invasive, as they do not spread aggressively and can coexist with other plants.
Q: Can Sphenopholis grow in containers?
A: Sphenopholis is not usually grown in containers, as it prefers to grow in the ground. However, it can be grown in large containers if provided with adequate space and soil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Sphenopholis:- Andropogon- Bouteloua- Calamagrostis- Danthonia- Festuca- Panicum
References
– USDA Plants Database- Missouri Botanical Garden- North Carolina State University Extension- University of Illinois Extension- University of Minnesota Extension
