Overview
Dichanthelium commonsianum (Ashe) Freckmann var. euchlamydeum (Shinners) Freckmann, also known as Dichanthelium euchlamydeum or Common’s rosette grass, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant is native to the United States, specifically in Texas. It is commonly used for ornamental and landscaping purposes, but it also has several medicinal properties.Appearance
Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum is a clump-forming species that can grow up to 1 meter tall. Its stems are erect or ascending and are usually covered in dense hairs. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring 10 to 25 cm long and 2 to 5 mm wide. The leaves grow from the base of the plant and form a basal rosette in younger plants. One easy way to identify this plant is by the pinkish to reddish-brown tint to its spikelets, which are arranged in densely clustered panicles.Uses
Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum is mostly used as an ornamental plant for its beautiful foliage and unique flowers. It can be grown as an accent plant, as well as in borders or rock gardens. It is a relatively low maintenance plant and can survive in a variety of soil conditions. The foliage also serves as a great forage for livestock and wildlife. Aside from its ornamental uses, Common’s rosette grass also has medicinal properties. Components extracted from the plant are used to treat ailments such as arthritis, skin inflammation, and urinary tract infections. Indigenous tribes in the southern United States used this plant to create teas with strong analgesic properties.Cultivation
Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum prefers full sun and has adapted well to a variety of soil conditions. It is drought tolerant, but it prefers well-drained soils. This plant does not require frequent watering, and it can tolerate mildly acidic soil conditions. It is also a hardy plant that can survive in USDA zones 6 to 9. Propagation of Common’s rosette grass can be achieved through seeds. Seeds can be obtained from online sources and local nurseries. Alternatively, they can be harvested from mature plants and sown in a greenhouse or outdoors in the fall.Light requirements
Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum prefers full to partial sunlight exposure for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can impede its growth and development.
Temperature requirements
This plant is typically found in the southern United States and prefers warmer temperatures to thrive. Optimal growth occurs when the average temperature ranges from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C), but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can be detrimental to its health.
Soil requirements
Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum is known to grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range is between 6.0 and 7.0. It is important to note that this plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils and can suffer from root rot if planted in poorly draining soil.
Cultivation Methods
The Dichanthelium commonsianum (Ashe) Freckmann var. euchlamydeum (Shinners) Freckmann or commonly known as Dichanthelium, is a warm-season grass that is native to Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana. It can be cultivated in a variety of soil and light conditions but is best grown in well-draining soil and full to partial sunlight. The plant requires a warm climate with temperatures ranging from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
When planting Dichanthelium, sow the seeds or transplant the seedlings in the spring season when the soil temperature is above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The seeds take about two weeks to germinate. Water the seeds or seedlings immediately after planting and provide ample moisture until they are established.
Watering Needs
Dichanthelium requires regular watering, especially during its early growth stages. Water the plant deeply once a week, or when the soil dries out, to encourage strong root development. However, ensure that the soil is not soggy as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Once the plant is established, reduce the frequency of watering and rely on rainfall to meet its water needs. However, during periods of drought or dry spells, provide supplementary watering to prevent the plant from wilting.
Fertilization
Dichanthelium is a low-maintenance grass that does not require frequent feeding. However, if you want to encourage vigorous growth, you can apply a complete granular fertilizer in the spring season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Such fertilizers are marked with a notation such as 10-10-10 and should be applied at a rate of 1 pound per 100 square feet of planting area.
Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as compost or aged manure, which enrich the soil with nutrients naturally. Apply these fertilizers in the early spring season when the soil begins to warm up and repeat the application in the fall season to maintain soil fertility.
Pruning
Dichanthelium is a grass species that does not require pruning. However, if you want to maintain the plant's neat appearance, you can trim the foliage during the late winter or early spring season before the new growth emerges. Use a sharp pair of pruning shears and cut the stems close to the ground, leaving only a few inches above the soil. By removing the old, dead foliage, you encourage the plant to produce fresh, healthy growth in the new season.
Moreover, avoid cutting the foliage during the growing season as it can weaken the plant and cause it to become susceptible to pests and diseases.
Propagation of Dichanthelium commonsianum (Ashe) Freckmann var. euchlamydeum (Shinners) Freckmann
There are several methods for propagating Dichanthelium commonsianum (Ashe) Freckmann var. euchlamydeum (Shinners) Freckmann, including:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest propagation methods for Dichanthelium commonsianum (Ashe) Freckmann var. euchlamydeum (Shinners) Freckmann is through seed propagation. Collect seeds from the plant in fall when the seed heads have turned brown and have begun to dry out. Store seeds in a cool, dry place until spring. In early spring, sow seeds in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist. Seeds should germinate in about one to two weeks.
Division
Dichanthelium commonsianum (Ashe) Freckmann var. euchlamydeum (Shinners) Freckmann can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant in early spring before new growth appears or in fall after the growing season has ended. Gently dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has at least one healthy shoot and root system. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist for the first few weeks.
Cuttings
Another propagation method for Dichanthelium commonsianum (Ashe) Freckmann var. euchlamydeum (Shinners) Freckmann is through stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings in early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a 6-inch section of stem and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant the cutting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting out of direct sunlight until roots have formed, which usually takes about four to six weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Dichanthelium commonsianum (Ashe) Freckmann var. euchlamydeum (Shinners) Freckmann
Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum is generally a healthy plant species that has the ability to resist pest and disease problems. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to a few diseases and pests that may cause damage to the plant and affect its growth. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum:
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases are a common problem that can affect Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum. This plant species can be affected by foliar and root rot diseases, powdery mildew, and rust. To manage these diseases, it is important to practice good cultural practices such as water control, proper irrigation, and application of fungicides when necessary.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases such as bacterial leaf spot and soft rot can also cause damage to Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum. These diseases can be managed by practicing good crop rotation, cultural practices, and applying copper-based fungicides.
Insects Pests
Insect pests that may affect Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum include cutworms, leafhoppers, and grasshoppers. These pests can cause heavy damage to the plant, affecting its growth and yield. To manage insect pests, it is important to practice good sanitation practices, watering control, and the use of insecticides when necessary.
Mite Pests
Mites such as two-spotted spider mites can cause damage to Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum. These pests suck the plant sap causing leaves to turn yellow and eventually die off. To manage mite pests, it is important to practice good watering control, proper irrigation, and the use of insecticides when necessary.
Nematodes
The root-knot nematode is the most common nematode that can affect Dichanthelium commonsianum var. euchlamydeum. These pests can cause root galling, stunting, and reduction in yields. It is important to practice good crop rotation, proper irrigation, and the use of nematicides when necessary to manage nematode pests.
