Origin
Hyparrhenia schimperi (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Andersson ex Stapf is a perennial grass naturally distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, from Mauritania and Senegal to Ethiopia and Tanzania.
Common Names
The plant has numerous common names depending on the country and region. In Ethiopia, it is known as "Gegar", while in Kenya and Tanzania, it is called "Kiondo". Other common names are "Ringier grass", "Borasso", and "Bushman grass".
Uses
Due to its deep root system, Hyparrhenia schimperi is drought-resistant and it is commonly used for soil and water conservation. Additionally, it provides forage for grazing animals and is commonly used as a thatching material and for making baskets and ropes. It has also been found to have medicinal properties, with the leaf extracts being used to treat a variety of illnesses such as malaria, tuberculosis, and jaundice.
General Appearance
Hyparrhenia schimperi is a tall and robust grass species that can reach a height of up to 3 meters. The stems are erect and leafy and can grow up to 1 cm in diameter at the base. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 1 meter in length and 2 cm in width. The inflorescence is large and open, with numerous spikelets that are reddish-brown in color and measure up to 1.5 cm long. The plant has an extensive root system that can reach depths of up to 2 meters, enabling it to withstand long periods of drought.
Light Requirements
The Hyparrhenia schimperi plant grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade, but it will not grow as vigorously as it would in full sun. It is essential to provide enough sunlight to the plant to ensure optimal growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is drought-tolerant and prefers hot and dry climates. It can survive in temperatures ranging from 30-45°C. During the winter, it can handle temperatures as low as 5-10°C. Generally, it prefers areas with a Mediterranean climate and can withstand long periods of drought.
Soil Requirements
The Hyparrhenia schimperi plant is hardy and can grow in a wide range of soils. It prefers well-drained soils and can grow in loamy or sandy soil. However, the plant does not grow well in water-logged soils. It is ideal for planting in soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant is tolerant of various soil types, including clay, gravel, and rocky soils.
Cultivation
Hyparrhenia schimperi (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Andersson ex Stapf can be grown in either sandy or loamy soils. It is important to ensure that the soil used is well-draining, as this plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils. Plant in an area that receives a minimum of 6 hours of sunshine daily. This plant can grow in either full sun or partial shade. Hyparrhenia schimperi has a high drought tolerance once established and can grow well in dry conditions.
Watering Needs
Water your Hyparrhenia schimperi plant at least once a week, especially during the first year after planting. During times of high heat or drought, you may need to water the plant more frequently to keep the soil moist. However, once established, the plant can do well with occasional watering during the drought. Avoid overwatering your plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Apply an all-purpose fertilizer annually in the spring to promote plant growth. Consider using well-rotted manure or compost to improve soil quality. During the growing season, you can supplement the soil with a slow-release fertilizer every three months to enhance the plant's growth.
Pruning
Pruning Hyparrhenia schimperi is not necessary unless you want to control its spreading or you want to maintain a certain shape and size. If you decide to prune, do so during the early spring before new growth emerges. Ensure that you sterilize the pruning tools before use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Hyparrhenia schimperi
Hyparrhenia schimperi, commonly known as Redgrass, is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Africa and widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant has a high tolerance to drought, hence, is well-adapted to arid and semiarid climates.
Propagation Methods
There are two main methods of propagating Hyparrhenia schimperi - through seeds and vegetative propagation.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds are readily available in the market, or they can be collected from mature plants. The seeds should be sown during the rainy season since the plant requires sufficient moisture for germination and establishment. The seeds should be planted at a depth of about 1 cm and spaced 10-15 cm apart. The seedlings should be thinned to a spacing of about 30 cm after germination to allow for optimal growth.
Vegetative Propagation
Hyparrhenia schimperi can also be propagated vegetatively using stem cuttings or rhizomes. Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature plants and planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be at least 10 cm long and should be planted to a depth of about 4-5 cm. Rhizomes, on the other hand, can be divided into smaller sections and planted in individual holes. The propagated plant requires sufficient moisture for root establishment.
Overall, both seed and vegetative propagation methods are effective in propagating Hyparrhenia schimperi. Planting should be done during the rainy season, and sufficient moisture should be provided to allow for optimal growth and establishment.
Disease Management
Common diseases that affect Hyparrhenia schimperi include anthracnose, rust, and smut. To manage anthracnose, use a fungicide containing chlorothalonil or copper-based fungicides. Ensure to apply fungicides as soon as you notice the symptoms. Rust and smut can also be managed using fungicides, and good sanitation practices are necessary to prevent their spread. You can prevent the occurrence of these diseases by avoiding overhead irrigation and providing adequate drainage.
Pest Management
Hyparrhenia schimperi is susceptible to insect pests such as spider mites, aphids, and armyworms. Spider mites can cause leaf discoloration and drop, and they can be managed by spraying plants with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap. Aphids are tiny insects that can cause yellowing and curling of leaves. Aphids can be managed through natural predators such as ladybugs or by spraying plants with insecticidal soap. Armyworms can cause severe damage to the plant, and they can be managed by using insecticides containing carbaryl or permethrin.
