Overview
Deschampsia atropurpurea (Wahlenb.) Scheele is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is commonly referred to as Purple Hair Grass due to its beautiful and distinct purple-brown colored flowers.
Origin
Deschampsia atropurpurea is native to Northern Europe, specifically to areas such as Norway, Sweden, Finland, and parts of Russia. It can also be found in certain parts of North America, such as Alaska, Canada, and certain regions of the United States.
Common Names
Aside from Purple Hair Grass, Deschampsia atropurpurea is known by a variety of common names across different regions. Some of these names include Black Bent, Purple Wood Grass, Black Hair Grass, and Violin Grass.
Appearance
Deschampsia atropurpurea is a medium-sized grass species that can grow up to three feet high and six inches wide. Its leaves are thin and have a rough texture, while its flowers are small, dark-colored, and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. Its roots are shallow, and the plant spreads easily through the growth of its underground rhizomes.
Uses
Deschampsia atropurpurea is primarily used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and unique appearance. It is often used in landscape design, and its hardiness makes it well-suited to growing in a variety of soil types and temperatures. Additionally, some Native American communities have traditionally used Deschampsia atropurpurea for medicinal purposes, including as a remedy for stomach issues and as an herbal tea.
hereLight Requirements
Deschampsia atropurpurea thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow well. However, it can also tolerate shade, making it perfect for growing in areas that have trees or tall buildings.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is relatively easy to grow and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can survive as low as -40 °C during winter and as high as 30 °C during summer. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 10-25°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining, moist, and fertile soil. It grows best in soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH of 5.5-7.4) and can tolerate soils that are slightly alkaline. Deschampsia atropurpurea can grow in different soil types such as sandy loam, loam, and clay loam, as long as the soil is well-drained. It is also relatively tolerant of salinity.
Cultivation methods for Deschampsia atropurpurea
Deschampsia atropurpurea is a hardy perennial plant that grows best in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9. When selecting an area to cultivate, choose a space with well-draining soil and full sun. This plant can also tolerate partial shade.
Watering needs for Deschampsia atropurpurea
Deschampsia atropurpurea is drought-tolerant, but it still needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing enough water to saturate the soil to the root level. However, be careful not to overwater, as too much water can lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Deschampsia atropurpurea
Deschampsia atropurpurea is generally not a heavy feeder and doesn't require frequent fertilization. However, for maximum growth and health, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once in the spring and once in the late summer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging carefully to avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning of Deschampsia atropurpurea
Deschampsia atropurpurea requires little pruning, except for removing any dead or damaged growth. Cut back any brown foliage in the spring to make way for new growth. You can also cut back the whole plant to the ground in late fall or early winter. However, it's important to leave at least 1-2 inches of growth to protect the plant's roots during the winter months.
Propagation Methods
Deschampsia atropurpurea can be propagated using different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common way to propagate Deschampsia atropurpurea is through seed. Collect seeds in late summer or early fall before they are dispersed and filled with moisture. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about two to three weeks. With adequate care, the seedlings can grow up to 2-3 feet in height within two to three years
Division Propagation
Another way to propagate Deschampsia atropurpurea is by division. This method is ideal for plants that have become overcrowded or for those who want to create additional plantings. Dig up the plant in the spring or fall when the plant is not in the active growing stage. Divide the plant into several sections, each with its own roots. Plant the sections at the same depth as the original plant in a location with well-draining soil. Water the soil thoroughly to promote healthy root growth and plant establishment.
Cuttings Propagation
Deschampsia atropurpurea can also be propagated through stem cuttings in the late spring or early summer. Take cuttings from the base of the plant, making sure they are at least 3-4 inches long and have a few nodes. Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a location that receives filtered light. The cuttings will start to root within a few weeks, and once rooted, they can be transplanted into the garden.
Disease Management
Deschampsia atropurpurea is a hardy, native grass that is resistant to most diseases. However, some diseases can occasionally affect this plant and cause significant damage if not managed properly. The following are some common diseases that might affect Deschampsia atropurpurea and their management strategies:
Crown Rust
Crown rust is a fungal disease that affects many species of grasses, including Deschampsia atropurpurea. The disease is characterized by orange or reddish-brown pustules that form on the leaves and stems of the plant. The disease can spread rapidly and cause significant damage if not managed effectively. To manage crown rust, it is essential to remove infected plant tissue as soon as it is detected. Fungicides can also be applied preventatively to protect healthy plants.
Leaf Blight
Leaf blight is another fungal disease that can affect Deschampsia atropurpurea. The disease is characterized by brown or black lesions that form on the leaves of the plant. In severe cases, the disease can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage leaf blight, it is essential to keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be applied preventatively to protect healthy plants.
Pest Management
Deschampsia atropurpurea is generally resistant to pests but can occasionally be affected by some common grass pests. The following are some common pests that might affect Deschampsia atropurpurea and their management strategies:
Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers are a common pest that can feed on the leaves and stems of Deschampsia atropurpurea. In severe cases, the feeding can cause significant damage and weaken the plant. To manage grasshoppers, it is essential to reduce habitat and food sources in and around the garden. Chemical pesticides can also be applied to kill grasshoppers, although this should be done with caution to avoid harming other beneficial insects.
Sod Webworms
Sod webworms are another common pest that can feed on the foliage of Deschampsia atropurpurea. The feeding can cause brown patches on the lawn and weaken the plant. To manage sod webworms, it is essential to keep the lawn well-watered and fertilized to encourage healthy growth. Chemical pesticides can also be applied to kill sod webworms, although this should be done with caution to avoid harming other beneficial insects.
