Overview
Deschampsia angusta, also known as Narrow hair grass, is a plant species belonging to the Poaceae family. It is a flowering herbaceous plant that is native to South America.
Appearance
The plant has a slender and delicate structure with a height range between 6-15 inches. Its leaves are narrow and elongated, resembling hair-like structures, which can grow up to 15 cm long. The plant's inflorescence takes the form of a spreading panicle that can be between 10-20 cm long.
Common Names
Deschampsia angusta is commonly known as Narrow hair grass.
Uses
The plant is used mainly for ornamental purposes due to its graceful appearance, which makes it useful in flower arrangements. It is also used for landscaping as it blends well with other plants and provides a lovely texture to garden beds. In addition to its ornamental uses, some species of Deschampsia angusta are utilized for medical purposes due to their antioxidant properties.
Light Requirements
Deschampsia angusta typically requires full to partial sunlight for optimal growth and development. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in weak and spindly growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in cool to moderate temperatures ranging from 45°F to 70°F. Higher temperatures may cause stress and reduce growth. However, it can tolerate occasional exposure to hotter temperatures, but these should not be sustained for long periods of time.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Deschampsia angusta should be moist, well-drained, and rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range is between 5.5 and 6.5. However, it can tolerate a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil. Nutrient-wise, this plant prefers moderate to high levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the soil. Adding compost or manure in the soil can help improve soil quality.
Cultivation Methods
Deschampsia angusta Stapf & C.E.Hubb. thrives best in a location with full sunlight to partial shade. The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. When planting, ensure that the plants are spaced at a distance of 12 to 18 inches apart, keeping in mind that they can spread fast.
Watering Needs
Deschampsia angusta requires consistent watering, especially during the hotter seasons. It is recommended to water the plant at least once a week, ensuring that the soil is adequately moist but not waterlogged. During the winter months, watering frequency can be reduced as the plant does not require as much water.
Fertilization
The plant can benefit from fertilization occasionally, especially if the soil quality is poor. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer, applying it during the growing season, which is typically during the spring and summer months. Do not fertilize in the fall/winter months as it can result in new growth that cannot withstand the cold temperatures.
Pruning
Deschampsia angusta Stapf & C.E.Hubb. requires minimal pruning. Dead or damaged leaves can be removed throughout the year. At the end of the growing season, the plant can be cut down to approximately 2 to 3 inches above the ground. This helps to maintain a neat appearance, promotes healthy growth in the following season, and prevents overgrowth and spreading.
Propagation of Deschampsia Angusta Stapf & C.E.Hubb.
Deschampsia angusta Stapf & C.E.Hubb. is a perennial plant that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant species can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation, division, and cutting.
Seed Propagation
Deschampsia angusta can be propagated through seeds during the spring season. The seeds can be planted at a shallow depth of about 1/8 inches in well-drained soil. These plants require moist and cool soil, ensuring that the soil remains damp for successful germination. The seedlings should be transplanted after a few weeks when they have grown sufficient roots and leaves.
Division
This plant can be propagated through division in the spring season. It involves carefully uprooting a mature plant, dividing it into several sections, and replanting each section. Each section should have a sufficient amount of roots and shoots to grow into new plants. The newly divided plants require high humidity and adequate water for successful establishment.
Cutting
Deschampsia angusta can also be propagated through cutting during the late spring season. Softwood cuttings of about 2-3 inches long can be rooted in soil or water. The cuttings should be exposed to high humidity and moist soil until they are successfully rooted. Once established, the cuttings can be transplanted into larger containers or the garden.
Disease Management
One common disease that affects Deschampsia angusta Stapf & C.E.Hubb. is leaf spot, which appears as brown or black irregular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to keep the area around the plant free of debris, as this can harbor the fungal spores that cause the disease. Fungal sprays and copper-based fungicides can be effective in controlling the spread of the disease. Another common disease that affects this plant is rust, which shows up as orange or brown spots on the leaves. Rust can be managed through fungicide sprays, as well as by removing and discarding infected plant material.
Pest Management
The most common pests that affect Deschampsia angusta Stapf & C.E.Hubb. are aphids, which are small green or black insects that feed on the sap of the plant. To manage aphids, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and remove any infested leaves or stems. Insecticidal soap can be applied to control aphids, and beneficial insects like ladybugs can also be introduced to the area to help control their population. Another common pest that affects this plant is spider mites, which cause yellowing and stunted growth. Spider mites can be managed through the application of insecticidal soap or neem oil, as well as by increasing the humidity around the plant and regularly washing the leaves to remove debris and dust.
