Overview
Elymandra gossweileri (Stapf) Clayton, also known as Elymandra gossweileri Stapf, is a species of grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. The plant is native to Africa and is commonly found in Angola, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as "Gossweiler's Elymandra" after Hans Heinrich Josef Gossweiler, a Swiss botanist who is known for his extensive work on African plants.
Description
Elymandra gossweileri is a perennial grass that typically grows to a height of 0.6-0.9m. The plant has erect stems that are largely unbranched, with cylindrical spikes that are 4-8cm long. The leaves are long and narrow, with a bluish-green color. The plant has a shallow root system that helps it tolerate drought conditions.
Uses
Elymandra gossweileri is primarily used for grazing, with the plant providing an important source of feed for cattle and other livestock. The plant is also used as a soil stabilizer in areas prone to erosion. In addition, the grass has medicinal properties, with some African communities using it to treat stomach ailments and respiratory problems.
Light Requirements
Elymandra gossweileri requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate some shade but may not thrive. Therefore, nurseries should grow the plant in areas with direct or filtered sunlight for best results.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can only grow in a tropical or subtropical climate, and temperature is a vital factor in its growth and development. The optimal temperature requirements range from 20°C to 32°C, and the plant cannot tolerate temperature below 10°C. Extreme conditions may affect the plant's growth and cause the leaves to fall off.
Soil Requirements
Elymandra gossweileri prefers well-draining soils with adequate moisture and rich in nutrients. The soil should have a pH between 5.5 and 7.5, and it should not be too alkaline or acidic. When planting the plant, the soil should be amended with compost and other organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth. Additionally, the plant can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils as long as the drainage is adequate.
Cultivation Methods
Elymandra gossweileri requires full sun to partial shade, and it thrives in well-drained soil. The plant can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. It is important to plant Elymandra gossweileri in a spot that is protected from strong winds.
Watering Needs
Regular and consistent watering is essential for Elymandra gossweileri. The plant needs to be watered deeply once a week during the growing season and more frequently during hot and dry weather. However, the plant does not tolerate wet soils, so it is important to ensure the soil is well-drained.
Fertilization
Applying a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season can help Elymandra gossweileri grow and thrive. It is best to use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid burning the roots. Alternatively, organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure can also be used.
Pruning
Elymandra gossweileri does not require regular pruning, but it can be lightly pruned after the flowering period to promote bushier growth. Remove any damaged or dead stems by cutting them back to the base using sharp, clean pruning shears. It is important to avoid cutting back more than a third of the plant in one pruning session.
Propagation methods for Elymandra gossweileri
Elymandra gossweileri is most commonly propagated by seed. This method is simple and relatively easy to perform in large quantities. The plants will also naturally self-seed if allowed to produce seed heads.
Seed propagation
Seeds can be sown in trays or pots and kept in a warm, bright location. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The seedlings will generally emerge within two to three weeks and can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground after they have developed their first set of true leaves.
It is also possible to propagate Elymandra gossweileri using cuttings, particularly from the soft, newer growth at the top of the plant. However, this method is less reliable and can be more difficult to achieve success.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, it is important to maintain consistent moisture levels and protect the young plants from strong winds and extreme temperatures until they become established.
Disease Management
Elymandra gossweileri is generally resistant to most diseases, but it can still be affected by certain fungal and bacterial infections. The most common diseases affecting this plant include root rot, leaf blight, and rust.
To manage root rot, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering the plant and make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes. If the plant is affected by fungal or bacterial leaf blight, remove the affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Avoid watering the plant from above to minimize the risk of re-infection. For rust, remove the affected plant parts and apply a fungicide to prevent further infection.
Pest Management
Elymandra gossweileri is not particularly susceptible to pests, but some common pests that might feed on this plant include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can cause damage to leaves and reduce plant growth.
To manage mealybugs, spray the affected parts of the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. For spider mites, wash the plant with a strong jet of water or apply a miticide. Scale insects can be removed manually or treated with a systemic insecticide. It is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of pest infestation and take action immediately to prevent further damage.
