Overview
Eleusine robecchii Chiov. is a plant species that belongs to the Poaceae family, commonly known as the grass family. It is a leafy perennial shrub that is found in the savannas and grasslands of Tanzania and Kenya.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Robecchi’s finger grass or simply as finger grass, due to the characteristic finger-like spikes that adorn its flowering stems.
Description
The plant has a fibrous root system, with long and slender stems that can grow up to 60 centimeters in height. The leaves are glabrous and typically measure 5-25 centimeters in length. They are narrow and yellowish-green in color. The plant blooms from January to April, with small and tightly clustered finger-like spikes that are light green in color, measuring up to 13 centimeters in length.
Uses
Eleusine robecchii Chiov. is used for medicinal purposes such as treating fever, stomach aches, and inflammation. The plant also has potential uses in agroforestry, particularly as a forage crop, hay, and silage, as it is drought-resistant and can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Light Requirements
The Eleusine robecchii Chiov. plant prefers bright light but not direct sunlight. It grows best in partial shade, making it an ideal indoor plant. Too much sunlight can burn its leaves, and too little light can result in slow growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature range for the Eleusine robecchii Chiov. plant is between 16°C to 27°C (60°F to 80°F). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F) for short periods. Extreme temperatures can cause damage to the plant, including wilting and death.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Eleusine robecchii Chiov. plant should be well-draining, fertile, and rich in organic matter. A recommended pH range for the soil is between 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can thrive in a variety of soil types, but it's best to avoid heavy clay or compacted soil which can limit root growth and cause waterlogging.
Cultivation methods
Eleusine robecchii Chiov. is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in warm, dry climates. It can be propagated by seed or sod, and it prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The plant should be grown in full sunlight to ensure optimal growth and health.
Watering needs
Eleusine robecchii Chiov. has moderate water requirements and can adapt to periods of drought. However, it is important to ensure that the plant is consistently watered during the growing season, especially during the establishment period. A good watering schedule is to water deeply once a week, rather than frequent light watering that can cause shallow root growth.
Fertilization
Eleusine robecchii Chiov. performs best when given regular applications of nitrogen-based fertilizers. Apply fertilizer during the growing season, every four to six weeks, to promote healthy growth. However, it is recommended to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive leafy growth and reduce seed production.
Pruning
Eleusine robecchii Chiov. does not require frequent pruning, but it is recommended to remove dead or yellowing leaves to promote new growth. The plant can be mowed once a month to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage dense growth. However, it is important to avoid cutting the plant too short, as this can affect its growth and health.
Propagation of Eleusine robecchii Chiov.
Eleusine robecchii Chiov. can be propagated through seeds or vegetative means.
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of Eleusine robecchii Chiov. can be collected from the matured infructescence. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until needed. Before sowing, the seeds should be scarified by rubbing them on sandpaper to break the hard seed coat. The scarified seeds can then be sown directly on the prepared soil.
Propagation through vegetative means
Eleusine robecchii Chiov. can also be propagated through vegetative means using root, stem, or leaf cuttings. Root cuttings should be collected during the dormant season, while stem and leaf cuttings can be collected during the growing season. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a moist and well-draining substrate until they develop roots. After the roots have formed, the cuttings can be transplanted to the desired location.
Disease Management
Eleusine robecchii Chiov. is prone to various diseases, including:
- Brown spot: This appears as brown or purplish lesions on leaves. It is caused by the Bipolaris eleusineae fungus. To manage, remove infected leaves and avoid overwatering.
- Gray leaf spot: This appears as gray spots on leaves. It is caused by the Pyricularia grisea fungus. To manage, apply fungicides and avoid overhead watering.
- Rust: This appears as yellowish rust on leaves. It is caused by the Puccinia eleusinei fungus. To manage, remove infected leaves and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Eleusine robecchii Chiov. is also prone to various pests, including:
- Cutworms: These are caterpillars that cut through the stem of the plant. To manage, apply natural predators or use pesticides.
- Scales: These are small insects that suck sap and cause yellowing of leaves. To manage, wipe the plant with a damp cloth or apply organic solution.
- Spider mites: These are tiny insects that cause discoloration of leaves and webbing. To manage, remove affected leaves and apply insecticidal soap.
