Contents
Description
Sporobolus Cynosuroides is a grass species that is native to North America, particularly in the Great Plains region. It is commonly known as big bluestem or turkeyfoot grass. This warm-season grass is known for its hardiness and drought resistance, making it a popular choice for landscaping and forage production. Its scientific name is derived from the Greek words “sporos” which means seed and “bolos” which means throw, as the grass can disperse its seeds widely through the wind.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Sporobolus |
Appearance
Sporobolus Cynosuroides can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Its stems are upright and can be reddish or green in color. The leaves are long and narrow, with a bluish-green hue that turns reddish in the fall. The grass produces large, turkeyfoot-shaped seed heads that are purplish in color. Its roots can grow up to 10 feet deep, making it an excellent plant for erosion control.
Care Guide
Sporobolus Cynosuroides is a hardy and drought-tolerant grass that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the grass deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The grass can grow in a wide range of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Sporobolus Cynosuroides prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The grass is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sporobolus Cynosuroides is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Leaf spot: A fungal disease that causes circular, brown spots on the leaves.
- Root rot: A fungal disease that causes the roots to decay.
- Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars can feed on the young seedlings.
Habitat
Sporobolus Cynosuroides is native to the Great Plains region of North America, but can now be found in many parts of the continent. It prefers open prairies and meadows, but can also grow in disturbed areas like roadsides and pastures. The grass is an important forage plant for cattle, deer, and other grazing animals.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sporobolus Cynosuroides invasive?
A: No, the grass is not considered invasive. It is a native species that is well-adapted to its environment.
Q: Can Sporobolus Cynosuroides be grown in containers?
A: It is not recommended to grow the grass in containers, as it requires deep roots to grow properly.
Q: Does Sporobolus Cynosuroides attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the grass produces flowers that can attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can Sporobolus Cynosuroides be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, the grass has deep roots that can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Related Plants
- Sporobolus Heterolepis
- Sporobolus Cryptandrus
- Sporobolus Wrightii
References
- American Meadows. (n.d.). Big Bluestem Grass. https://www.americanmeadows.com/grass-seeds/big-bluestem-grass
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Sporobolus Cynosuroides. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g600
- USDA NRCS. (n.d.). Big Bluestem (Sporobolus Cynosuroides). https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_spcy.pdf
