Origin:
Dichanthelium dichotomum (L.) Gould var. breve (A.S. Hitchc. & Chase) Gould & C.A. Clark, commonly known as dichanthelium grass, is a plant that is native to North America.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly referred to as dichanthelium grass, split beardgrass, and purple woolygrass.
General Appearance:
Dichanthelium dichotomum (L.) Gould var. breve (A.S. Hitchc. & Chase) Gould & C.A. Clark is a perennial grass that typically reaches heights of about 1.5 meters. The plant has a robust and spreading nature, with hairy leaves and a deep shade of purple at the base. Its inflorescences are compact and cylinder-shaped, with several branches that grow upwards. The inflorescences are covered in silky purple hairs, adding to the plant's ornamental value.
Uses:
Due to its ornamental nature, dichanthelium grass can be cultivated as an accent plant in gardens and landscapes. The plant is also highly valued for its ecological benefits, such as soil conservation, erosion control, and providing habitats for wildlife. Some indigenous tribes of North America used the plant for medicinal purposes such as a tea for fevers and a poultice for sore throats.
Light Requirements
The plant Dichanthelium dichotomum var. breve typically grows in full sun, and it can also tolerate partial shade. It can grow successfully in areas with both direct and indirect sunlight, making it a versatile plant that can thrive in a range of conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This species of plant can tolerate a wide range of temperature conditions. It can grow in areas with both high and low temperatures. Typically, this plant grows well in areas where the temperature ranges from 15-30°C (59-86°F), making it suitable for growth in most temperate regions.
Soil Requirements
The soil type and pH level are crucial growth factors for Dichanthelium dichotomum var. breve. This species of plant typically grows best in well-draining soils that have a pH of 6.0 - 7.5.
The plant is known to grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils. However, it requires adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other issues.
The plant can also tolerate moderately saline soils, making it adaptable to different soil types and conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Dichanthelium dichotomum var. breve, commonly known as "split beak panicgrass," is a warm-season grass that is often planted for soil stabilization, erosion control, wildlife habitat improvement, and low maintenance lawns. This grass grows well in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It is drought tolerant once established and can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Watering Needs
While this grass is drought tolerant, it will benefit from regular watering during the first growing season to help establish a healthy root system. After that, supplemental watering is only necessary during prolonged drought periods. Water the grass deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilization
It is usually unnecessary to fertilize Dichanthelium dichotomum var. breve, as it is adapted to grow in poor soils. However, if you want to promote faster growth and denser foliage, you can apply a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer in early spring. Avoid using fast-release fertilizers, as they can cause rapid, weak growth that is more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Regular pruning is not required for Dichanthelium dichotomum var. breve. However, if you prefer a tidier appearance, you can mow the grass in early spring before it starts to grow. Set the mower blade at a height of 2-3 inches to avoid damaging the grass. You can also prune away dead or damaged foliage throughout the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
Propagation of Dichanthelium dichotomum (L.) Gould var. breve (A.S. Hitchc. & Chase) Gould & C.A. Clark
Dichanthelium dichotomum (L.) Gould var. breve (A.S. Hitchc. & Chase) Gould & C.A. Clark is a perennial grass that can be propagated through various methods such as seed, division, or stem cuttings.
Propagation through seed
The easiest method of propagation for Dichanthelium dichotomum (L.) Gould var. breve (A.S. Hitchc. & Chase) Gould & C.A. Clark is through seed. The seeds can be sown in a seed tray or directly in the ground during the late summer or early fall. The seeds should be sown at a depth of ¼ inch and spaced 6 inches apart. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which generally takes about 10 to 14 days. Once the seedlings are established, they can be transplanted into their final location in the garden.
Propagation through division
Dichanthelium dichotomum (L.) Gould var. breve (A.S. Hitchc. & Chase) Gould & C.A. Clark can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the mature clumps of the grass into smaller sections and planting them in separate locations. The best time to divide the grass is during the late spring or early fall. Care should be taken to ensure that each section has enough roots and stems to establish itself in its new location.
Propagation through stem cuttings
Propagation of Dichanthelium dichotomum (L.) Gould var. breve (A.S. Hitchc. & Chase) Gould & C.A. Clark can also be done through stem cuttings. This method involves taking a stem cutting from the grass and rooting it in a rooting hormone. Once the cutting has developed roots, it can be planted in a pot or directly in the garden. Stem cuttings are typically taken during the late summer or early fall when the grass is actively growing.
Disease and Pest Management for Dichanthelium dichotomum (L.) Gould var. breve (A.S. Hitchc. & Chase) Gould & C.A. Clark
Dichanthelium dichotomum (L.) Gould var. breve (A.S. Hitchc. & Chase) Gould & C.A. Clark is a resilient species, but it can still suffer from diseases and pests like any other plant. Therefore, proper management is essential to keep it healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
Fungal and bacterial diseases are the most common culprits that infect Dichanthelium dichotomum. The following are some of the diseases that can affect the plant:
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange or yellowish-orange pustules on the leaves and stems of the plant. Severely infected plants can lose their leaves prematurely, leading to stunted growth. The best way to manage rust is to remove and destroy infected plant parts and prevent waterlogging.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf spot and stem canker. Infected leaves usually drop prematurely, and stem cankers make the plant brittle and prone to breakage. Regular pruning and removal of infected plant parts along with fungicidal treatments can help manage anthracnose.
- Leaf Blight: Leaf blight is another fungal disease that causes brownish-purple spots on the leaves and stems. Severe infections can result in defoliation and plant death. Proper air circulation, avoiding overhead irrigation, and the use of fungicides can help manage leaf blight.
Common Pests
Dichanthelium dichotomum is also prone to attack by several pests. Some of the common pests that can infest this plant are:
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves and stems, stunting plant growth and causing leaf curling. They can also transmit viral diseases. The use of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control aphids.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that cause leaf yellowing and stippling. Infested plants become weak and prone to diseases. Regularly spraying the plant's foliage with water and the use of insecticides can help control spider mites.
- Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers are voracious pests that can damage the plant's foliage by eating it. They can cause extensive damage in a short amount of time. The use of physical barriers like netting can prevent grasshopper infestation. Using insecticides can also help manage an infestation.
Overall, proper management practices that include regular monitoring, pruning, cleaning, and the use of organic or chemical treatments can help prevent, manage and control pests and diseases that affect Dichanthelium dichotomum, ensuring its growth and well-being.
