Overview
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. is a flowering plant that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is a perennial grass-type plant that is known for its ornamental value and versatility.
Origin
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. is native to Madagascar. It is commonly found in grasslands, savannas, and rocky soils. Interestingly, it thrives best in areas with disturbed soils such as in fields and along roadside verges.
Common Names
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. is commonly known by a number of names including clawed lovegrass, Shihay grass, and Madagascar love grass.
Appearance
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. is a clump-forming grass that is capable of growing up to 75cm tall. It has slender leaves that are flat and linear and can grow up to 30 cm long and 4mm wide. The plant flowers from August to November and produces spikelets that are up to 40 cm long.
Uses
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. is primarily used as an ornamental plant for lawns and landscapes. Its love-shaped blooms and arching stems add a unique touch of attractiveness to any garden or lawn. Additionally, it is used for erosion control, forage, and turf in some areas. Its ability to grow in difficult soils, and in drought conditions make it a hardy and low maintenance option.
Typical Growth Conditions for Eragrostis devolvens Gand.
Eragrostis devolvens Gand., commonly known as Australian lovegrass, is a perennial grass plant native to Australia. The plant thrives in a wide range of habitats, from dry and arid regions to moist and relatively fertile areas. Here are the typical growth conditions required for this plant:
Light
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. requires full sun exposure to grow and flourish. The plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Without enough exposure to sunlight, the growth of the plant may be stunted, and the leaves may become yellowish.
Temperature
The plant grows well in a variety of temperature ranges. Eragrostis devolvens Gand. can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 40°C. However, the optimal temperature range for the plant is between 25°C to 30°C. During extreme heat or cold periods, the plant may temporarily stop growing or lose its leaves.
Soil
The plant grows in various soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils with moderate fertility. Eragrostis devolvens Gand. can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils, with a pH range of 6.5 to 8.0. The plant cannot survive in waterlogged soils, as it can lead to root rot and eventually kill the plant.
The plant has a shallow root system, so it requires regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moderately moist but not waterlogged. During periods of drought, the plant may become dormant and turn brown, but it will resume growth once adequate moisture is available.
Cultivation Methods for Eragrostis devolvens Gand.
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require special cultivation techniques. It grows well in most soils, although loose, well-drained soil with a pH of 7.5 to 8 is best. The plant thrives in full sun, but it can tolerate moderate levels of shade. Sow Eragrostis devolvens Gand. seeds in early spring after the last frost.
Watering Needs for Eragrostis devolvens Gand.
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. requires moderate watering. Water the plant whenever the soil is dry to the touch. When watering, make sure the water penetrates the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. However, make sure not to overwater the plant, as it may lead to root rot.
Fertilization for Eragrostis devolvens Gand.
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. doesn't need special fertilization methods. During its growing season, a general-purpose fertilizer can be used once a month to keep the plant healthy. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, as overfertilization can lead to excessive growth and weak stems.
Pruning Eragrostis devolvens Gand.
Pruning Eragrostis devolvens Gand. is not necessary, as it has a natural shape. However, if you want to give the plant a neat and tidy appearance, cut back the plant by a third in early spring. This pruning method also helps to stimulate new growth and increase the plant's lifespan.
Propagation methods of Eragrostis devolvens Gand.
Eragrostis devolvens Gand., also known as "Devollen's love grass," is a perennial grass species that is native to Ethiopia. Propagation of this grass species is necessary to expand its population and ensure its conservation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Eragrostis devolvens Gand. The seeds should be harvested when ripe from the plant and stored in a cool, dry place. The seeds can be sown directly in prepared soil during the rainy season or started indoors and then transplanted to the field after the last frost.
Vegetative propagation
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the rainy season when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and at least 10 cm long with at least two nodes. The cuttings can be planted directly in prepared soil or in a container with sand and kept moist until roots develop.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Eragrostis devolvens Gand., but it is not commonly used. This method involves dividing the clump of the grass into smaller sections and replanting them in prepared soil.
Overall, seed propagation and stem cutting are the most preferred methods of propagating Eragrostis devolvens Gand. with seed propagation being the most recommended one.
Disease Management
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. is typically a healthy plant and not prone to diseases. However, it may sometimes be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spots caused by Bipolaris and Curvularia fungal species. Cultural practices play a crucial role in managing these diseases.
One of the most effective methods for disease management is to practice good sanitation. Proper watering methods, planting distance, and removal of weed hosts around the plant can minimize disease occurrence. Also, the removal of infected plant materials or debris from the field should be done immediately and disposed of properly.
Pest Management
Eragrostis devolvens Gand. is often attacked by Bothynoderes punctiventris, commonly known as the stem boring weevil, which can result in stunted growth and reduced yield.
The use of insecticides is not recommended for control of pest infestations in Eragrostis devolvens Gand. Instead, cultural practices such as crop rotation, proper field sanitation, and intercropping are recommended. These practices help reduce pest infestations by interfering with their breeding patterns and reducing the likelihood of pest buildup.
Planting resistant and tolerant varieties can limit pest damage and help combat pest pressure more effectively. Regular field scouting for pest symptoms can also help identify and manage pests before they cause significant damage.
