Coelachyrum stoloniferum C.E.Hubb.
Coelachyrum stoloniferum C.E.Hubb. is a plant species in the Poaceae family. It is commonly known as "stoloniferous coelachyrum" or "creeping coelachyrum". The plant is native to Africa and can be found in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Swaziland, and South Africa.
Appearance
The plant has a tufted and stoloniferous growth habit with slender stems, measuring up to 60 cm long. Its leaves are narrow, about 6 mm wide, and can grow up to 22 cm long. The inflorescence of the plant is a spike-like panicle that measures up to 14 cm long.
Uses
Coelachyrum stoloniferum has a few known uses. The plant is a valuable forage crop used in grazing lands throughout Africa. It is know to be highly palatable to both livestock and wildlife animals such as impalas, zebras, and giraffes. Coelachyrum stoloniferum has also been known to be used for erosion control in steep areas due to its strong root system which stabilises soil. Additionally, it has some medicinal properties and the roots and leaves have been used traditionally for pain relief and to treat skin diseases such as eczema and rashes.
Light Requirements
Coelachyrum stoloniferum C.E.Hubb. is a plant that requires full sun to grow. It thrives best in areas with intense sunlight and minimal shade. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight should be provided daily, preferably in the morning to early afternoon.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures to grow, with a minimum temperature of 18 degrees Celsius. The optimal temperature range for the growth of Coelachyrum stoloniferum C.E.Hubb. is between 20-35 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, sandy, and loamy soils. Coelachyrum stoloniferum C.E.Hubb. can grow in soils with a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH, ranging from 6.0-7.5. However, the plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clayey soils. It can also tolerate periods of drought and hot weather.
Cultivation
Coelachyrum stoloniferum is best grown in well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It prefers full sunlight, but can tolerate some shade. This plant is commonly propagated through division or seed.
Watering Needs
Coelachyrum stoloniferum requires moderate watering, with the soil being allowed to dry out partially before being watered again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Coelachyrum stoloniferum with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or similar, every four to six weeks during the growing season. Fall fertilization should be avoided.
Pruning
Coelachyrum stoloniferum does not require regular pruning. However, dead or diseased leaves and stems should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. If the plant becomes too tall or leggy, it can be cut back to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Coelachyrum stoloniferum
Propagation is the method of reproducing plants without the need for seeds. Coelachyrum stoloniferum C.E.Hubb., also known as trailing seagreen, is commonly propagated through vegetative propagation or clonal propagation.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation involves creating new plants using vegetative parts, such as stems and leaves. In Coelachyrum stoloniferum, propagation through runners or stolons is commonly used. Runners are the horizontal stems that grow at the base of the plant. These runners eventually develop roots and produce new shoots. The new shoots can then be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into new pots or locations. Another method of vegetative propagation is through stem cuttings. Cuttings from mature stems are taken and rooted in moist soil or water until new roots and shoots develop.
Clonal propagation
Clonal propagation involves creating new plants from cells or tissues of the parent plant. This propagation method is commonly used in tissue culture laboratories and requires specialized equipment and skills. In Coelachyrum stoloniferum, clonal propagation can be achieved through plant tissue culture. This technique involves taking a small piece of tissue, typically from the stem, and growing it in a nutrient-rich medium under controlled environmental conditions. The tissue eventually develops into a whole plant that is genetically identical to the parent plant.
Disease Management
Coelachyrum stoloniferum is prone to fungal diseases like leaf spot and rust disease. To manage these diseases, it is recommended to remove infected leaves and stems immediately they are noticed to prevent the spread of the disease. Also, care should be taken not to overwater the plant as this can promote the development of fungal pathogens. The use of copper-based fungicides has been shown to be effective in managing fungal diseases of Coelachyrum stoloniferum.
Pest Management
Common pests that may affect Coelachyrum stoloniferum include aphids and spider mites. To manage these pests, it is essential to inspect the plant regularly for any infestation. In case of infestation, the use of insecticidal soaps and neem oil spray can be applied to the affected plants. Biological control methods, like introducing natural predators, can also be effective in managing pest infestation. It is important to take preventive measures like maintaining proper plant hygiene and removing weeds to prevent pest infestation from occurring in the first place.
