Origin
Aristida divaricata Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd. is a species of grass that is native to Central and South America. It is generally found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.
Common Names
Aristida divaricata is commonly known by a variety of names including 'pinuela', 'capitancillo', 'pelo de angel', and 'jarilla'.
Uses
Aristida divaricata has a number of traditional uses. The leaves are known to contain high levels of alkaloids, so they have been used in traditional medicine as a sedative and analgesic. The plant is also known to be used by indigenous people as a food source. The seeds are edible and can be ground into a flour to make bread or used as a seasoning. Due to its high resistance to drought, it is also used in soil conservation programs.
General Appearance
Aristida divaricata is a perennial grass that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It has thin, thread-like leaves that are about 0.5 cm wide. The leaves are arranged in a basal rosette and are covered with fine white hairs. The flower spikes are branched and extend up above the leaves, with the branches usually carrying small seeds which are borne singly amongst the fine branches. The flowers are usually pink or purple, although they can occasionally be white.
Light Requirements
Aristida divaricata typically requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. These plants are adapted to thrive in a wide range of light conditions, from open fields to wooded areas.
Temperature Requirements
Aristida divaricata is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in areas with moderate temperatures, ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Aristida divaricata grows in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining, sandy soils. These plants do not tolerate heavy, waterlogged soils. The pH levels of the soil should range from slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from pH 6.0 to 7.5.
Aristida divaricata is a resilient plant that can tolerate drought, making it ideal for dry landscapes and prairies. It is also resistant to fire, making it an important component of fire-adapted ecosystems.
Cultivation
The Aristida divaricata Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd., commonly called "three-awned feather," is a hardy plant that is easy to grow in most regions. It thrives in well-draining soils that are not overly rich in nutrients. This grass can be grown in full sun or partial shade, making it a versatile plant for different landscapes.
The ideal temperature for Aristida divaricata is between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant grows best in areas with low humidity and moderate rainfall. It is relatively drought-resistant, but it still requires some watering during extended dry periods.
Watering Needs
Aristida divaricata requires moderate watering during its growing season. Irrigate it regularly but avoid overwatering, as waterlogged soils can cause root rot. During extended dry periods, increase watering frequency to twice a week. When watering, apply water directly to the soil, avoiding the leaves to prevent fungal growth.
Fertilization
Three-awned feather grass is not a heavy feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. It benefits from slow-release nitrogen fertilizer applied once a year in the spring. Avoid overfertilizing as too much nitrogen can cause excessive foliage growth, which can weaken the plant.
Pruning
Aristida divaricata does not require regular pruning. Dead leaves and stems can be removed in the early spring before the growing season begins. In the fall, cut back the plant to a few inches above the ground to prevent winter damage. Overgrown clumps can be divided in the spring to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Aristida divaricata Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.
Aristida divaricata Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd. can be propagated through seeds or vegetative propagation.
Propagation by seeds
The plant produces seeds that can be sown directly on the soil, after the last frost. The seeds require proper soil preparation before sowing. The soil must be well-draining and fertile. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/4 inch and covered with a light layer of compost. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 10-14 days.
The best time to collect the seeds is immediately after the flowering season. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until they are ready for use.
Vegetative propagation
Aristida divaricata Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd. can also be propagated through vegetative propagation. The plant can be divided during the spring season, and each division should have at least two shoots and a well-developed root system. The divisions should be planted in well-draining and fertile soil, and the soil should be kept moist until the plants establish themselves.
Alternatively, stem cuttings can also be used to propagate the plant. The best time to take the cuttings is during the spring season. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants, and each cutting should have at least two nodes. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept in a humid environment until they establish roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Aristida divaricata
Aristida divaricata is a native grass species that is relatively disease and pest free. However, in certain conditions, it can be susceptible to some diseases and pests. Below are the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot - This fungal disease appears as circular, tan spots on the grass blades. Leaves may also turn yellow and eventually die. To manage, remove infected leaves and debris from around the plant, and apply a fungicide when necessary.
Anthracnose - This fungal disease causes irregularly shaped brown or purple lesions on the grass blades and sheaths. It can lead to leaf death and stunted growth. To manage, remove infected leaves and debris, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply a fungicide when necessary.
Pests
Sod webworms - These pests are the larvae of moths and feed on the grass blades, causing brown patches in the lawn. To manage, use insecticidal sprays at the first sign of damage and maintain the lawn at the proper height to discourage the larvae from laying eggs.
Chinch bugs - These pests feed on the sap of the grass blades, causing yellowish or brown patches. To manage, use insecticidal sprays at the first sign of damage and maintain the lawn at the proper height to discourage the bugs from laying eggs.
Overall, maintaining a healthy lawn through proper watering and fertilizing practices can help prevent disease and pest problems in Aristida divaricata.
