Origin
Dichanthelium leucoblepharis (Trin.) Gould & C.A. Clark var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Gould & C.A. Clark, commonly known as white eyelid panicgrass, is a species of grass that is native to North and South America.
Common Names
In addition to white eyelid panicgrass, Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens is also commonly referred to as glabrous panicgrass and smooth panicgrass.
Uses
This species of panicgrass is primarily used as livestock forage and is well adapted to a variety of soils. It's considered a valuable forage grass, as it's known for its ability to persist in poor growing conditions.
General Appearance
Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens has a simple, erect, and unbranched stem that can grow up to 100 cm tall. The leaves are light green and narrow, possessing a sheath that can range from 2 to 9 cm in length. The seed heads are borne on long, slender stems, ranging from 5 to 15 cm long. These seed heads feature numerous small, yellowish-green flowers with bristle-like awns at the tip of each seed. The overall appearance of the plant is that of a tall, thin grass with a fine texture.
hereLight Requirements
Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens thrives in full sun exposure to partial shade. It typically grows in open grasslands, savannas, and prairies, so it is well-adapted to handle a wide range of light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it prefers warm weather. They can be found growing from southern USA to Argentina. In its natural habitat, temperatures range from 10C-30C (50F-86F). In general, Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens will not tolerate frost, so it does best in USDA zones 9-11.
Soil Requirements
Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens prefers well-drained soils with a neutral pH level in the 6.0-7.5 range. It is highly adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. This plant can tolerate drought-like conditions and is quite resilient to root disturbance, making it an ideal candidate for planting in disturbed areas.
Cultivation
Dichanthelium leucoblepharis (Trin.) Gould & C.A. Clark var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Gould & C.A. Clark, commonly known as white panicle, is a native American prairie grass. It can grow well in various soil types such as sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. It prefers a sunny location and can tolerate cold weather.
Watering Needs
Dichanthelium leucoblepharis (Trin.) Gould & C.A. Clark var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Gould & C.A. Clark requires moderate watering. It is drought tolerant, but it needs enough water to establish itself in the initial stages. In the long term, it may need supplemental watering during extended dry periods.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not essential for Dichanthelium leucoblepharis (Trin.) Gould & C.A. Clark var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Gould & C.A. Clark. However, if the growth rate is not up to your expectation, you can apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. This grass is not a heavy feeder, so the amount of fertilizer needed is minimal.
Pruning
Dichanthelium leucoblepharis (Trin.) Gould & C.A. Clark var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Gould & C.A. Clark requires minimal pruning. If you want to maintain the plant's shape, you can trim the top off at the end of the growing season. However, you don't have to prune the plant every year, and it can thrive without pruning.
Propagation of Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens
Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens is a herbaceous plant that can be propagated from seeds or rhizome cuttings.
Propagation from Seeds
The ideal time to sow the seeds of Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens is in the spring. To increase the chances of germination, treat the seeds with a fungicide before planting. The seeds should be planted in well-drained soil and watered regularly. The seedlings will emerge after a few weeks, and after a couple of months, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation from Rhizome Cuttings
Propagation of Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens from rhizome cuttings is another viable method. The rhizome cuttings should be taken during the early spring or fall. The cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until the roots form. Once the roots have formed, the new plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
It's important to note that transplants from either method may take a year or more to establish fully. Once established, they will be self-sufficient and require minimal maintenance.
Pest and Disease Management for Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens
Dichanthelium leucoblepharis, commonly known as narrowleaf panicgrass, is a warm-season, perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. While this grass species is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, it may sometimes be affected by common issues. Proper management using integrated pest and disease management practices can help to promote optimal plant health and reduce the incidence of pests and diseases.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that may affect Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens is the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). These pests feed on the plant, causing defoliation and reduced growth. The larvae of the fall armyworm are usually found feeding on the lower leaves of the plant.
Other common pests that may affect Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens include aphids and spider mites. Aphids feed on the plant sap and can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Spider mites, on the other hand, feed on the underside of leaves and can cause stippling and yellowing of the plant.
Pest Management
Integrated pest management (IPM) practices can be used to manage pests that may affect Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens. One of the best strategies is to practice good cultural practices, such as proper irrigation and fertilization, to promote plant health.
Biological control can also be used as a pest management strategy. Natural predators of pests such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps can be introduced to control pest populations.
Chemical control can be used as a last resort if other management strategies fail. However, it is essential to use pesticides that are labeled for use on Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens and to follow the label instructions carefully.
Common Diseases
Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens is relatively resistant to most diseases. However, it may sometimes be affected by fungal diseases such as smut and rust.
Smut is a fungal disease that attacks the flowers and seed heads of the plant, causing them to become black and powdery. Rust is another fungal disease that causes yellowing and pustules on the leaves of the plant.
Disease Management
Prevention is key to managing diseases that may affect Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens. Good cultural practices such as proper irrigation, fertilization, and crop rotation can help to prevent the development and spread of diseases.
If a disease is suspected, it is essential to identify the disease correctly to determine the best management strategy. Fungicides can be used to manage some fungal diseases. It is critical to use fungicides that are specifically labeled for use on Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens and to follow the label instructions carefully.
In conclusion, Dichanthelium leucoblepharis var. glabrescens is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, to maintain optimal plant health, it is essential to implement integrated pest and disease management practices. Good cultural practices, biological control, and chemical control (if necessary) can help to promote plant health and reduce the incidence of pests and diseases.
