Overview - ×Elyhordeum macounii (Vasey) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey
×Elyhordeum macounii (Vasey) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey, commonly known as Macoun's wildrye, is a perennial grass hybrid that is native to North America. It is a cross between two grass species: Elymus canadensis and Hordeum jubatum. The plant is named after John Macoun, a Canadian naturalist and botanist who collected the type specimen of the plant in 1882.
Appearance
Macoun's wildrye grows as a tufted grass, reaching heights of up to 1.5 meters (5 feet). It has erect, leafy stems that are solid and unbranched. The leaves are bluish-green, narrow, and flat, with rough margins that can be sharp. The plant flowers in late spring to early summer and produces spikelets that are 4-6 centimeters (1.6-2.4 inches) long. The spikelets are arranged in dense, cylindrical clusters that are 10-30 centimeters (4-12 inches) long. The seeds are oval and yellow-brown in color, with plump kernels that are about 5 millimeters (0.2 inches) in length.
Uses
Macoun's wildrye has several uses. In the wild, it is an important source of forage for livestock and wildlife. The grass is drought-resistant and can grow in various soil types, including clay and sand. It is also an ornamental grass that is used in landscaping and erosion control.
Aside from its practical uses, Macoun's wildrye has cultural significance to Native American tribes. The Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes used the grass in traditional ceremonies and for making baskets, mats, and other woven items. They also used the grass seeds for food and as a source of medicine.
hereGrowth Conditions for ×Elyhordeum macounii (Vasey) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey
Light: ×Elyhordeum macounii requires full sun for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but will not thrive in shaded areas. When grown in shaded areas, the plant grows taller in an attempt to reach the sunlight.
Temperature: The plant grows well in cool climates and can withstand temperatures as low as -10°C. It is also tolerant of high temperature and can grow in areas with temperatures up to 30°C. However, the plant may show signs of stress if exposed to extreme temperatures for extended periods.
Soil: ×Elyhordeum macounii prefers moist and well-drained soil. However, the plant can tolerate drought and can grow in soil with low moisture content. It also requires soil with a pH of 5.5 to 8.0. The plant can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils but prefers soil that is rich in organic matter.
Cultivation
×Elyhordeum macounii is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. It prefers well-draining soils and full sun exposure. The best time to plant this grass is in the fall, but it can also be planted in the spring.
Watering Needs
Watering needs for ×Elyhordeum macounii will vary based on the climate and soil conditions. However, as a general rule, this plant requires consistent moisture during the growing season and should be watered deeply once or twice a week. During periods of drought, it is recommended to increase the frequency and amount of water applied to the plant.
Fertilization
×Elyhordeum macounii does not require heavy fertilization. If the soil is poor or deficient in nutrients, it is recommended to apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as this can lead to excessive growth and weaken the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for ×Elyhordeum macounii, as it is a low-maintenance grass. However, if the plant becomes too tall or leggy, it can be cut back in the fall or early spring. Removing old or dead blades of grass can also help to promote new growth and increase the overall health of the plant.
Propagation of ×Elyhordeum macounii (Vasey) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey
×Elyhordeum macounii (Vasey) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey is a hybrid plant obtained from the cross between Elymus trachycaulus (slender wheatgrass) and Hordeum jubatum (squirreltail barley). This hybrid plant is a perennial and is native to North America. It is commonly propagated by seed and division.
Propagation by seed
Propagation of ×Elyhordeum macounii can be done by collecting seeds from mature plants. The seed harvesting can be done between June and July. It is important to wait until the seeds are fully matured, and the seed heads have started to dry and turn brown. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place. The seeds require a period of cold stratification before they can germinate.
The cold stratification can be done by placing the seeds in a container with moist medium such as sand or peat, and then storing them in a refrigerator for about 2-3 months. After the cold stratification period, the seeds can be sown in a seedbed. The seedbed should be prepared by loosening the soil and removing any debris. The seeds can be broadcast or sown in rows depending on the planting area. After sowing, the seeds should be lightly covered with soil and watered properly.
Propagation by division
Division is another method of propagating ×Elyhordeum macounii. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system and the crown. The best time to divide the plant is during early spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing.
To divide the plant, the soil around the plant should be loosened, and the plant carefully lifted from the ground. Gentle shaking can be done to remove any excess soil from the root system. Using a clean and sharp knife or spade, the plant can be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one healthy shoot, and a portion of the root system and crown.
The divided plants should be replanted immediately and watered properly. It is advisable to keep the newly divided plants in a shaded area before transplanting them to their final location.
Disease and Pest Management for ×Elyhordeum macounii
×Elyhordeum macounii, also known as Macoun's wildrye, is a perennial grass that is native to North America. The plant has few known pests and diseases that affect it, but management is important to keep it healthy.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that can affect ×Elyhordeum macounii is leaf rust. This disease is caused by the fungus Puccinia hordei and can cause yellowish-orange spots on the leaves, reducing the plant's overall vigor. To control leaf rust, remove infected leaves, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Another disease that can affect ×Elyhordeum macounii is crown rot, caused by the fungus Fusarium avenaceum. Symptoms of crown rot include a reddish-brown discoloration of the crown and roots and a general decline in the plant's health. The best management practice is to remove and destroy infected plants, and to rotate crops to reduce the buildup of fungal spores in the soil.
Common Pests
The most common pest found on ×Elyhordeum macounii is aphids. These small insects can infest the leaves and stems of the plant, causing it to wither and die. To control aphids, wash them off with a strong stream of water, or use insecticidal soap or oil sprays as necessary.
Another pest that can affect ×Elyhordeum macounii is the sawfly larva. These caterpillar-like insects can strip the leaves of the plant, causing significant damage. To control sawfly larvae, use insecticide sprays or biological control methods such as introducing natural predators like parasitic wasps into the area.
Preventative Measures
To prevent disease and pest problems in ×Elyhordeum macounii, it is essential to keep the plant healthy by providing adequate water and fertilizer, avoiding overcrowding, and maintaining proper drainage. It is also important to monitor the plant regularly for signs of disease or pest infestation and to remove any infected or infested plants immediately to prevent further spread.
By implementing these disease and pest management practices, ×Elyhordeum macounii can remain healthy and vigorous, providing a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.
