Origin and Common Names
Hyparrhenia acutispathacea (De Wild.) Robyns var. pilosa Bamps, also known as "Salamo" or "African Thatching Grass," is a species of perennial grass that is native to tropical Africa, specifically in Angola, Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.Uses
In many African countries, Hyparrhenia acutispathacea is widely used for thatching roofs, making baskets, and other handicraft items. The grass is also used as a fodder for cattle and other livestock. Moreover, its roots are used in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions, including fever, headache, and stomach pain.General Appearance
Hyparrhenia acutispathacea is a tall, tufted grass that can grow up to 2.5 meters in height. The leaves are narrow, long, and slightly hairy, with pointed tips. The inflorescence of the grass is a large panicle, which can reach up to 60 centimeters in length. The flowers are arranged in pairs, with one spikelet often exceeding the other in length. The spikelets themselves are narrow and elongated, measuring up to 12 millimeters in length, and covered with tiny, light-brown hairs. The grass prefers moist soils and is often found in marshy areas, along riverbanks, and in wetlands, particularly in savannas and woodlands.Light Requirements
Hyparrhenia acutispathacea var. pilosa prefers full sunlight to thrive. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Inadequate sunlight can result in a weak and stunted plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is resilient and can tolerate high temperatures of up to 40°C. However, the optimal growth temperature range is between 22°C to 30°C. At lower temperatures, the plant may experience slower growth rates and reduced reproductive success. Cold and frosty conditions may also be detrimental to the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in sandy, loamy soils with good drainage ability. It prefers soils with pH levels ranging from neutral to alkaline. The recommended pH range is 6.5 to 8.5. The plant can tolerate soils with low fertility levels and has a moderate salt tolerance. However, it is not suitable for waterlogged soils.
Cultivation Methods
Hyparrhenia acutispathacea (De Wild.) Robyns var. pilosa Bamps is a resilient plant that can thrive in different climatic conditions. It prefers a warm and dry environment with temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius. The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. To cultivate the plant, prepare the soil by digging to a depth of around 30cm. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 6-7.5.
Watering Needs
Watering the plant can be done once a week, especially during the dry season. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant. To check if the plant needs water, insert your finger into the soil. If the soil is dry up to a depth of 5cm, then it’s time to water the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant using organic fertilizer once every four to six weeks. Use a balanced fertilizer that has an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. During the growing season, add a nitrogen-based fertilizer to enhance leaf growth.
Pruning
Prune the plant annually to maintain its shape and size. Use a sharp and clean pair of pruning shears to cut off any dead or damaged stems. Pruning should be done after the plant has finished flowering.
Propagation of Hyparrhenia acutispathacea var. pilosa
Hyparrhenia acutispathacea var. pilosa can be propagated through seed or vegetative methods. For best results, propagation should be done during the early rainy season. Here are some methods:
Propagation by Seed
Seeds can be collected from mature plants during the rainy season. After collection, the seeds need to be cleaned and dried in a well-ventilated area. Once dry, they can be stored in a cool, dry place until ready to use. To achieve optimum germination, the seeds should be scarified and soaked in water for 24 hours. The germinated seeds should then be sown in a mixture of soil and compost and kept moist until they establish.
Propagation by Division
Hyparrhenia acutispathacea var. pilosa can be effectively propagated through division. Propagation by division involves digging up the plant and dividing the plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots. The sections can then be replanted in an area with well-draining soil and ample sunlight. Regular watering is necessary until the plants have become established. Division is best done during the early rainy season when the plant is actively growing.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another option for propagating Hyparrhenia acutispathacea var. pilosa. The cuttings should be taken during the early rainy season when the plant is actively growing. The cutting should be about 10 cm long and be taken from a healthy plant. Remove all the leaves except for the top two or three and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture and water regularly until the plant has become established.
Disease Management
Hyparrhenia acutispathacea (De Wild.) Robyns var. pilosa Bamps, commonly known as feather grass, is not known to be vulnerable to any major disease. However, in a sub-optimal environment, the grass may experience lodging.
Lodging is when the stems of the grass bend or break because of external factors such as heavy rains and strong winds. It can also be caused by internal factors such as the grass being too dense or weak. The best way to avoid lodging in feather grass is to choose a suitable location with optimal conditions, such as well-drained soil and adequate nutrient availability. Providing enough space between plants and avoiding over-fertilization can also prevent lodging.
Pest Management
Feather grass is relatively resistant to pests. However, some common pests that may affect the plant include aphids, spider mites, and cutworms.
Aphids and spider mites are both sucking insects that feed on the plant’s sap. They cause leaves to become discolored and stunted, and can also cause foliage to dry up and fall off. The best way to manage these pests is to spray affected plants with a solution of water and dish soap or insecticidal soap.
Cutworms are caterpillars that eat through the stem of the plant, causing it to fall over. The best way to manage cutworms is to place a collar around the stem of each plant and to remove any fallen foliage or debris that may attract them.
