Origin
Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. is a species of flowering plant in the grass family Poaceae. It is native to Ethiopia and can be found along the eastern part of Africa.
Common Names
This type of grass is commonly known as Schimper’s fingergrass or Schimper’s harpachne. In Ethiopia, it is referred to as “Ferragara”.
Uses
Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. is commonly used for silage production in livestock feed in Ethiopia. The grass is able to regenerate quickly even after being grazed, and it is considered to be highly palatable to livestock. In addition to being used for animal feed, Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. is also an important medicinal plant. In traditional Ethiopian medicine, the roots and leaves are used to treat various intestinal disorders and fever.
General Appearance
Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. is a tufted perennial grass that can grow up to a height of 50 cm. The stems are erect and slender, with a diameter of 1-2mm. The leaves are narrow, with a length of 5-17cm and a width of 2-4mm. The inflorescence is a panicle with spikelets that are 3-4mm long.
Light Requirements
Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. is a plant that grows best under full sunlight. It is essential to ensure that the plant receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, and it grows well in both partial shade and full sun.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The plant does not grow well in extremely cold environments, and temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can be detrimental to the plant. In colder zones, the plant should be grown in a greenhouse or indoors.
Soil Requirements
Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. thrives in well-drained, fertile, and moist soils. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 and be rich in organic matter. It is advisable to mix loam soil with compost or organic matter such as manure before planting to increase nutrient availability. Saline soils should be avoided as it can be toxic to the plant.
Cultivation Methods
The Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in areas with plenty of sunlight. The plant should be planted in well-draining soil, and it is essential to avoid water logging in the root zone. The plant grows well in zones with a temperature range of 18-30 degrees Celsius, and it should be protected from frost during the winter.
Watering Needs
For young plants, watering should be done weekly or whenever the soil becomes dry. Mature plants need watering only during extended periods of dry weather. The plant should not be over-watered, as this may lead to root rot and other unwanted conditions.
Fertilization
The Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. doesn’t require frequent fertilization but will benefit from an annual application of a slow-release fertilizer during the spring. The application should be followed by adequate watering to facilitate proper nutrient uptake.
Pruning
Pruning should be done in the early spring to remove any dead or damaged parts of the plant. It also helps to promote lateral growth, which leads to a bushier and robust plant. Use sharp pruning tools, and ensure that you sterilize them between cuts to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich.
There are several methods of propagating Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. One method is through seed propagation. The seeds should be collected when they are mature and ripe. These can then be sown in trays or pots filled with a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist and the seeds should germinate in a few weeks.
Another method is by using stem cuttings. This method is best done in spring or early summer when the plant is in active growth. The stems should be cut from the parent plant and the lower leaves should be removed. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist and the cuttings should root in a few weeks.
Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich. can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in spring or early fall when the plant is dormant. The parent plant should be lifted and the root ball should be divided into smaller sections. These sections can then be replanted in the desired location.
Disease Management for Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich.
Although Harpachne schimperi is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of weather conditions, it is susceptible to certain diseases. Knowing and identifying the diseases can help manage or prevent them from spreading to other healthy plants.
Common diseases that can affect Harpachne schimperi include:
- Root rot
- Leaf spot
- Gray mold
- Powdery mildew
To manage these diseases, precautions must be taken such as using clean and sterile soil, ensuring proper drainage of the soil and avoiding overwatering. For root rot management, it's recommended to control irrigation and plant healthy seedlings. Chemical control of fungal diseases is available but needs to be used with caution.
Pest Management for Harpachne schimperi Hochst. ex A.Rich.
Harpachne schimperi can also fall victim to several insect pests that can weaken or kill the plant. Pests that might affect the plant include:
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
- Spider mites
- Thrips
Keeping a close eye on the plant and timely identification of pests can be particularly instrumental in controlling extensive damage. Insecticide sprays, horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps may also help to eliminate these pests. Additionally, natural predators like ladybugs and praying mantis can be introduced to the environment for biological control.
