Origin
Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard is a type of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This plant is native to Tropical Africa and can be found in various countries such as Guinea and Sierra Leone.
Common Names
Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard is commonly known as Gonda Fingergrass or Perrottet’s Hairy Fingergrass. In some African countries, it is also known as “kpo” or “teketeke”.
Uses
The grass species is used for soil stabilization due to its ability to grow in difficult soil conditions and is a suitable fodder for livestock. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes in countries like Guinea Bissau where the roots are pounded and mixed with water for the treatment of stomach ache. In traditional medicine studies, it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.
General Appearance
Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard is an annual grass that is known to grow up to about 1 meter tall. The leaves are narrow and can grow up to about 20cm long. The plant can be distinguished from other grass species by its distinctive hairy sheaths which have dark, reflexed hairs. The inflorescence of the plant is a panicle that can grow up to 15cm long and is often purple or green in color. The seeds of the grass are relatively small, measure about 1-1.5mm in length and are oval-shaped.
Light Requirements
The plant Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard prefers full sunlight for optimal growth. It grows well in areas with bright sunlight and is adapted to hot and dry environments. However, it can also tolerate partial shade but may not grow as vigorously.
Temperature Requirements
Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard is a warm-season grass that thrives in high temperatures. It is well-suited to tropical and subtropical regions, where temperatures typically range between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). It can tolerate extremes of temperature but may not grow as well in cooler environments.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil textures, from sandy to clayey, and is adapted to soils with a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. It can also grow in saline soils but may be stunted in growth if the soil is too salty. The plant requires adequate soil moisture for optimal growth, but it can tolerate drought conditions to some extent.
Cultivation
Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard is a grass species that requires plenty of sunlight to grow. It can grow in various soil types but prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.5 - 7.0. The plant can be propagated through seeds or division of the root clumps. Division is best done during the growing season.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering. It should be watered regularly, especially during the early stages of growth. However, care should be taken not to overwater as this can cause root rot. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly before the next watering to prevent waterlogging that can be harmful to the plant.
Fertilization
Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard does not require excessive fertilization. Applying nitrogen-rich fertilizer once or twice a year can help maintain healthy grass growth. However, care should be taken not to over-fertilize as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced seed production.
Pruning
This plant is a clumping grass species and does not require frequent pruning. However, to maintain neat and tidy growth, pruning should be done once or twice a year. Pruning should be done towards the end of the growing season, leaving some foliage to protect the crown in winter. Care should be taken not to cut the grass too short, as this can damage the plant.
Propagation of Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard
Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard can be propagated through different methods, including:
Seeds propagation
Seeds are the most commonly used medium for the propagation of Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard. The plant produces an ample amount of seeds that can be easily collected and planted. The seeds should be collected from a mature plant, and the seed head should be cut once the seeds are dry. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, and place them in a bright, but not direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings have established themselves.
Division
Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard can also be propagated through division. Mature plants can be divided into clumps that contain roots, stems, and leaves. Cut the clumps using a sharp tool or a spade, making sure that each clump has enough roots and leaves to grow on its own. Plant the divided clumps in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they have established themselves.
Vegetative propagation
The vegetative propagation method involves taking cuttings from mature plants. Cut the stems from the plant and trim the leaves to a minimum, leaving only a few at the top. Place the stem cutting in a soil mix and keep it moist until it establishes roots. Once roots have developed, repot the plant into a well-draining soil and keep it in a bright but not direct sunlight.
Disease Management
Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard is susceptible to the following diseases:
- Fungal leaf spots: These are caused by several species of fungi that cause small to large spots on leaves. To control, remove infected leaves and provide good drainage. Fungicides may also be used.
- Yellow leaf spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cochliobolus heterostrophus. Infected leaves show yellow spots that later turn brown and die. Remove infected leaves and use fungicides.
- Smut: The fungus Ustilago digitariae causes swollen black galls on leaves and stems. Remove infected plants and do not replant in the same area.
Pest Management
The following pests may affect Digitaria perrottetii (Kunth) Stapf var. gondaensis Henrard:
- Aphids: These insects feed on plant sap and produce a sticky substance called honeydew. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars feed on plant stems at night and hide in the soil during the day. Use a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis or handpick the caterpillars.
- Sod webworms: These caterpillars feed on plant foliage and create small holes in the leaves. Use a biological control or insecticides to manage.
