Origin and Common Names
Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich. is a grass species native to Africa and is commonly known as Long Style Wheat Grass or Danthonia Grass.
Appearance
The plant is a tall, erect grass, growing up to about 1.5 meters tall. It has a narrow, lanceolate leaf blade that ranges from about 5-30cm long and about 5-10mm wide. The inflorescence is a panicle, which can be up to 45 cm long and is made up of spikelets that are about 7-20mm long.
Uses
While not commonly used for forage due to its tough texture, Danthonia elongata is a valuable plant for soil conservation. It has a deep root system that is effective in stabilizing soil, and it is used in re-vegetation programs and erosion control projects. The plant is also frequently used for landscaping projects, as it adds aesthetic value to outdoor spaces. Additionally, Danthonia elongata is a popular plant for wildflower mixes, attracting pollinators such as butterflies and bees.
Light Requirements
Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich. grows best in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. In areas with hot summers, some shade during the hottest part of the day may be beneficial.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to a range of temperatures but grows best in areas with cool summers. The ideal temperature for growth is between 15°C to 25°C. Moreover, this plant is tolerant of cold temperature and can survive frost.
Soil Requirements
Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich. prefers non-acidic soils with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate sandy soils. Moreover, it can tolerate soil with low fertility and low waterholding capacity.
Cultivation methods
Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich. is a hardy perennial that is easy to grow. It requires well-drained soil, and it does well in soils that are sandy, loamy, or even gravelly. This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is also tolerant of drought and can handle periods of dry weather.
Watering needs
Watering needs for Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich. are low to moderate. This grass is drought-tolerant and can handle periods of dry weather. However, if the plant is grown in a container, it will require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich. does not require much fertilization. In fact, too much fertilizer can cause the plant to become leggy and weak. Feeding it with a slow-release fertilizer once per year is sufficient.
Pruning
Pruning of Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich. is not necessary, as it is a low-growing shade-tolerant grass that rarely needs maintenance. However, to keep it looking neat, you can trim the leaves back in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation of Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich.
Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich., commonly known as slender woollybutt or tall wallaby grass, is a native grass species that is found in Australia. This grass species can be propagated through different methods. The propagation methods for Danthonia elongata are described below.
Seed propagation
The most common method for propagating Danthonia elongata is through seed propagation. This method is relatively easy and straightforward. The seeds should be collected from healthy plants. The best time to collect seeds is when the seed heads have dried out and turned brown. The collected seeds should be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool and dry place until use. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or raised in a nursery before planting out.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Danthonia elongata is another method that can be used to propagate this grass species. This method involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and planting them in the soil. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and inserted into the soil at a depth of around 5 cm. The soil should be kept moist until the cuttings have rooted. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into their final location.
Division
Division is another method that can be used to propagate Danthonia elongata. This method involves dividing the clumps of the parent plant into smaller sections and planting them in separate locations. The best time for division is during the early spring when the plant is actively growing. The soil should be kept moist until the divisions have established themselves.
Overall, Danthonia elongata is an easy to propagate grass species. Seed propagation is the most common method, but vegetative propagation and division can also be used for propagation.
Disease Management
Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich. is resistant to most diseases. However, it can be occasionally affected by some fungal pathogens. The most common fungal diseases that may affect this plant include rust, stem rust, and leaf spot. To manage these diseases, growers should follow good cultural practices such as regular cleaning of growing areas, avoiding overcrowding, and planting disease-resistant varieties. Fungicides can also be applied to control the diseases in case of severe infection.
Pest Management
Danthonia elongata Hochst. ex A.Rich. is not significantly affected by pests. However, some insect pests can attack this plant, including mealybugs, aphids, and thrips. To manage these pests, growers can use biological control methods such as introducing beneficial insects that prey on the pests. Pesticides can also be applied to control the pests in case of a severe infestation. It is recommended to apply the necessary pesticides with caution and using the recommended methods to avoid harming beneficial insects that might also be present in the growing area.
