Origin
Lasiagrostis capensis Nees var. elongata (Nees) Trin. & Rupr. belongs to the family Poaceae and is native to southern Africa, including Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. It is commonly found in grasslands, savannas and rocky slopes.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Long-stalked Woolly Grass or Blue Woollygrass due to its striking blue-green color and soft, woolly leaves.
Uses
Lasiagrostis capensis Nees var. elongata has several uses. It is often used in landscaping and horticulture for ornamental purposes due to its beautiful blue-green foliage. It is also a valuable forage plant for grazing animals, as its soft leaves and stems are highly palatable, nutritious and protein-rich.
Furthermore, the plant is used in traditional medicine for various ailments such as stomach disorders and bronchitis. The roots and leaves are crushed and boiled to create a decoction, which is then ingested or used externally as a wash or poultice.
General Appearance
Lasiagrostis capensis Nees var. elongata is a clump-forming perennial grass with thin, wiry stems that can grow up to 60cm in height. The plant has dense clusters of blue-green, narrow leaves that are around 6mm wide. The inflorescence is an elongated spike-like panicle that grows up to 25cm long, with numerous small, woolly, pale green flowers that bloom from spring to summer. The plant is easy to care for and can thrive in a wide range of soils and climatic conditions.
hereLight Requirements
Lasiagrostis capensis Nees var. elongata (Nees) Trin. & Rupr. thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. It is a sun-loving plant that requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, it can tolerate some shade and can grow well under partial sunlight conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is adaptative to fluctuations in temperature. It can thrive in areas with a wide range of temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. It prefers a warm temperature range between 18°C to 25°C and requires a minimum temperature range of 10°C to survive. It can withstand mild frost for a short period of time
Soil Requirements
Lasiagrostis capensis Nees var. elongata (Nees) Trin. & Rupr. grows well in well-drained soil with mildly acidic to slightly alkaline soil pH. It prefers loamy soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5, but it can grow well in a variety of soil types, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils. The soil should be well-drained to prevent waterlogging, as stagnant water can lead to the development of root rot. Adding organic matter to soil can help enhance nutrient retention and drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Lasiagrostis capensis is a hardy plant that prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It is commonly grown outdoors and can adapt to varying soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It is ideal to plant the grass in spring or fall for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
Lasiagrostis capensis requires moderate watering, and it is best to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week and adjust the frequency of watering based on the prevailing weather conditions. The plant can tolerate drought, but it may stunt growth and reduce the overall aesthetic value if left without water for extended periods.
Fertilization
The plant may benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer during the growing season, which occurs during the summer months. Over-fertilization may lead to excessive growth and may weaken the plant, making it more susceptible to diseases and pests. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months when it is inactive.
Pruning
Lasiagrostis capensis requires minimal pruning, and it is best to remove the dead or damaged leaves and stems occasionally. Pruning helps to maintain the plant's shape and may prevent the growth of fungal diseases. Trim back the plant to about two-thirds of its initial height in early spring to encourage new growth. Avoid pruning in the fall or winter as it may damage the plant during the cold season.
Propagation of Lasiagrostis capensis Nees var. elongata (Nees) Trin. & Rupr.
Lasiagrostis capensis Nees var. elongata (Nees) Trin. & Rupr. commonly known as Veldt grass, is a perennial grass widely distributed in southern Africa. It is commonly propagated by either seed or vegetative means.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seed is the most common method for Lasiagrostis capensis Nees var. elongata. The seeds are produced abundantly and are easily collected by hand or mechanically. Pre-planting seed treatment, such as soaking of the seeds for 24 hours or scarification can be done to increase germination rates. The seeds are then planted at a depth of about 1 cm in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Seeds usually germinate within three to four weeks. Seedlings should be watered regularly until they are firmly established.
Propagation by Vegetative Means
Propagation by vegetative means involve taking stem cuttings, root cuttings, or division of the parent plant. Stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants and placed in damp soil. Root cuttings can be taken during the dormant season and placed horizontally in well-drained soil. Division of the parent plant should be done during the growing season, with each division containing a good root and shoot system. Wild harvesting for propagation by vegetative means is not recommended, as it can lead to the destruction of natural populations.
Disease and Pest Management for Lasiagrostis capensis Nees var. elongata (Nees) Trin. & Rupr.
Lasiagrostis capensis Nees var. elongata (Nees) Trin. & Rupr. is a grass species commonly known as Cape Veldtgrass. It is a hardy plant, but like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Proper management practices can help keep the plant healthy and productive.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Cape Veldtgrass is rust. Rust disease is caused by fungi that form yellow or brown threads on the leaves and stems of the plant. These threads eventually turn into spores and get spread through the wind or water. To manage rust disease, it is important to maintain good hygiene practices and remove any infected plant material. Fungicides can also be used to control severe infestations.
Another disease that affects Cape Veldtgrass is leaf blight. Leaf blight is caused by bacteria or fungi that attack the leaves of the plant. Symptoms of leaf blight include yellowing or browning of leaves and blackening of the stem. To manage leaf blight, remove infected plant material and apply fungicides or bactericides to prevent further spreading of the disease.
Common Pests
Cape Veldtgrass is not commonly infested by pests. However, it can be attacked by grasshoppers, mites, and aphids. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant, affecting its overall growth and productivity. To control pest infestations, use insecticides or natural predators that feed on the pests.
It is important to always keep an eye on your Cape Veldtgrass and implement good management practices as soon as you notice any signs of disease or pest infestation. Remember to always follow the instructions on the labels of any chemical or natural product used to manage diseases and pests.
