Overview:
Digitaria myurus Stapf is a perennial grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is commonly known as the woolly fingergrass and is widespread in Africa. In ancient times, this plant had been traditional medicine for treating infertility, malaria, bilharzia, and other diseases.
General Appearance:
The woolly fingergrass has creeping stolons and culms (stems). The plant can vary in size and height from 10-60 cm. The leaves of Digitaria myurus Stapf grow from the base and are approximately 5-15 cm long and 3-8 mm wide. The color of the leaves is usually olive-green, pale green, or greyish-green. They also have a smooth texture.
Origin and Distribution:
In Africa, Digitaria myurus Stapf is quite widespread, particularly in countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Apart from Africa, it is found in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Yemen.
Common Uses:
The plant has several uses. Locals use it as a traditional medicine for cough, fever, and other diseases. It has been traditionally used as a tea as it helps to control urination. In some parts of South Asia, this plant is also used as an anti-diabetic medicine. It is also used as an animal feed.
In conclusion, Digitaria myurus Stapf is an African origin plant that has a lot of importance. Despite its traditional medicinal uses, it can also be used for ornamental purposes due to its beautiful appearance. It is a valuable plant that deserves more attention for its usefulness.
Light Requirements
Digitaria myurus Stapf thrives best in locations where they can receive full sunlight for most of the day. Direct sunlight helps promote its growth and development, making it possible to thrive well in areas with a lot of light. The plants require about six to eight hours of sunlight a day minimum.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for growth and development of Digitaria myurus Stapf is between 20°C to 35°C. The plant can tolerate extreme cold or extreme heat but performs optimally when the temperature is around the optimal range. Any temperature below 10°C is unsuitable for the plant's growth and can cause significant damage to the plant, such as leaf wilting and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Digitaria myurus Stapf prefers well-drained loamy or sandy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant's roots require good aeration and moderate soil moisture content to grow adequately. Nitrogen and phosphorous-rich soil is good for the plant's growth. In contrast, soil deficient in essential minerals may hamper the plant's growth. The plant can tolerate high soil salinity levels and grow well in areas with high soil salinity.
Cultivation of Digitaria myurus Stapf
Digitaria myurus Stapf, also known as Feather Fingergrass, is a warm-season grass that is easy to grow. The plant prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It also grows well in hot, dry conditions, making it ideal for regions with arid climates. The plant can be propagated through seeds or by transplanting mature plants.
Watering Needs
Digitaria myurus Stapf requires regular watering to thrive. The plant needs 1-2 inches of water per week during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. It is best to water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Digitaria myurus Stapf requires minimal fertilization as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, it is important to supplement the soil with nutrients to ensure healthy growth. The plant requires nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the growing season. It is best to apply the fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer when the plant is actively growing.
Pruning
Digitaria myurus Stapf does not require frequent pruning. However, it is important to remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance. It is also important to cut back the plant to a few inches after the growing season to promote new growth in the following season.
Propagation of Digitaria myurus Stapf
Propagation of Digitaria myurus Stapf is relatively easy following one of the following methods:
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate Digitaria myurus Stapf is through seed propagation. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix at a depth of about 5mm, water well and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. Germination usually occurs within 7-10 days under suitable conditions. Once seedlings are established, they can be transplanted to a larger container or directly in the ground.
Division
Digitaria myurus Stapf can also be propagated through division. Divide the clump into smaller sections with a sharp knife or spade. Ensure that each division has a good amount of roots and replant in a well-drained potting mix. Water thoroughly to promote good root establishment.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is also possible. Select healthy stem cuttings with several leaves, usually around 8-10cm in length. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and water well. Cover with a plastic bag or place in a propagator to maintain high humidity until roots are developed.
Disease Management
Digitaria myurus Stapf is generally a healthy plant, but it may be susceptible to some diseases. The most common diseases that affect D. myurus are fungal infections, including rust and leaf spot disease. Rust disease shows symptoms of brownish-red spots on the leaves, while leaf spot disease appears as brown lesions on the leaves.
The best way to manage these diseases is to take preventive measures. Keep the area around the plant clean and free of debris, and avoid overhead watering. If the symptoms persist, use fungicides according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest Management
Digitaria myurus Stapf is not commonly affected by pests, but it may attract some insects such as grasshoppers and cutworms. Grasshoppers can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and stems. Cutworms, on the other hand, cut the stems near the soil line.
To manage grasshoppers and cutworms, use insecticides that are specifically designed for these pests. You can also use physical barriers or traps, such as sticky traps, to keep them away from the plant. Crop rotation is also helpful in managing pest infestations.
Remember to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions when using any type of pesticide. Also, be careful not to apply them when the plant is in bloom, as it may harm pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
