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Description
Sporobolus Fertilis is a warm-season, perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is also known by the common names of Alkali Dropseed, San Diego Dropseed, and Fertile Dropseed. This plant is native to the southwestern United States, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah, as well as northern Mexico.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Sporobolus |
Appearance
Sporobolus Fertilis is characterized by its dense tuft of leaf blades that grow from a central point, forming a circular clump. The leaf blades are narrow, green, and have a rough texture. The seed heads are erect and narrow, measuring up to 30 cm long. The seeds are small and have a brown color. This grass can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Sporobolus Fertilis is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers full sun exposure and well-drained soil. This plant is drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil conditions. Watering should be done sparingly and only when the soil is dry. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be done in the spring. This grass is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sporobolus Fertilis is not commonly affected by pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as rust and leaf spot, if the soil is too moist.
Habitat
Sporobolus Fertilis can be found in various habitats, including desert washes, rocky slopes, grasslands, and chaparral. It is commonly found in alkaline soils and can tolerate salty conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sporobolus Fertilis a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Sporobolus Fertilis is a great plant for erosion control due to its deep root system and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions.
Q: Can Sporobolus Fertilis be grown in containers?
A: While Sporobolus Fertilis can be grown in containers, it prefers to grow in the ground where it can spread out its roots.
Q: Does Sporobolus Fertilis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Sporobolus Fertilis can attract wildlife such as birds and small mammals that feed on its seeds.
Q: How often should Sporobolus Fertilis be watered?
A: Sporobolus Fertilis should be watered sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Related Plants
- Sporobolus Airoides
- Sporobolus Cryptandrus
- Sporobolus Heterolepis
- Sporobolus Wrightii
References
- “Sporobolus Fertilis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SPFE.
- “Sporobolus Fertilis.” Arizona State University – Arizona Cooperative Extension, extension.arizona.edu/pubs/sporobolus-fertilis.
- “Sporobolus Fertilis.” San Marcos Growers, www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3697.
