Origin
Panicum strigosum Muhl. ex Ell. var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Lelong, commonly known as smooth panic grass, is a species of perennial grass belonging to the family Poaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, prairies, and savannas.
Common Names
Smooth panic grass is also known under a range of common names, including ticklegrass, rosette grass, and rough panicum.
Uses
The grass has been used for forage by livestock and is also used to prevent erosion. Its seeds are eaten by birds, while its leaves and stems can be used to weave baskets. Smooth panic grass is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance.
General Appearance
Smooth panic grass typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet and has a clumping growth habit, with several stems emerging from a central point. Its leaves are long and narrow, with a prominent midrib and jagged edges. The blades of the leaves are a bright green color and the stems of the plant are often reddish in color. The inflorescence of smooth panic grass consists of numerous branching clusters of small, spike-like flowers that are typically green or purplish in color. The seeds of the plant are small and brown and are produced in abundance.
hereLight Requirements
Panicum strigosum Muhl. ex Ell. var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Lelong requires full sunlight to thrive. Ideally, it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In areas with hot summers, it may benefit from partial shading during midday hours.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to regions with a temperate climate. It grows best in areas where the average temperature ranges between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It is frost tolerant and can survive mild winter conditions as low as 20°F (-7°C). However, prolonged and extreme cold can damage and even kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Panicum strigosum Muhl. ex Ell. var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Lelong can grow in a wide range of soil types. However, it prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0). It can tolerate soils with low fertility and moderate salinity but does not thrive in waterlogged or compacted soils.
Cultivation
Panicum strigosum Muhl. ex Ell. var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Lelong, commonly known as smooth panicgrass, is a native grass species that grows in dry open habitats, including prairies, savannas, and open woods. The plant prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils but can also grow in clay soils. It grows best in sunny locations, but it can also tolerate light shade and drought conditions.
Watering Needs
Smooth panicgrass is a drought-tolerant plant, meaning it can withstand dry conditions for an extended period. Water the plant regularly during the first few weeks of planting to help establish its roots. After that, the plant can generally survive on natural rainfall. However, during prolonged dry spells, it may require extra watering. Make sure to give the plant a deep watering once every two weeks instead of frequent shallow watering.
Fertilization
Smooth panicgrass doesn't require much fertilization. The plant grows well in nutrient-poor soils and doesn't benefit from heavy fertilization. However, if the soil is nutrient-deficient, you can add a slow-release fertilizer during the early growing season. Make sure not to over-fertilize the plant, as it can harm its growth and quality.
Pruning
Smooth panicgrass doesn't require much pruning. You can prune the plant once a year during the late winter or early spring before it starts growing. Cut the dead or damaged leaves and stems using pruning shears or a sharp knife. It's recommended to leave about a third of the plant's height to encourage regrowth. You can also cut the plant back to the ground every three to four years to stimulate new growth and help control its spreading.
Propagation of Panicum Strigosum Muhl. ex Ell. var. Glabrescens (Griseb.) Lelong
Panicum strigosum Muhl. ex Ell. var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Lelong, commonly known as tall panic grass, is a native grass species found mainly in the United States. Propagation of this plant can be done both sexually and asexually.
Sexual Propagation
The sexual propagation of Panicum strigosum is done through seeds. The seeds of this plant are quite small and can be easily collected once they have matured. Collecting the seeds from the plant when they are at their peak maturity ensures higher chances of germination.
Once the seeds have been collected, they should be sowed in a well-draining potting mix and then kept in a warm and moist environment. The pots should be placed in direct sunlight and the soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate. This process usually takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on the soil temperature.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Panicum strigosum can be done through stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings from the plant during the active growing season. Cuttings should be 10-15 cm in length and should be taken from the healthy and disease-free section of the plant.
Once the cuttings have been collected, cut the leaves off the lower half of the stem and then dip the cut ends of the stem into a rooting hormone. Place the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and then cover the pot with a plastic bag to trap the moisture.
Place the pot in indirect sunlight and ensure that the soil stays moist. Once the cuttings have started to grow roots, move them to a larger pot and gradually move them to full sunlight to allow further growth.
Disease Management
Panicum strigosum Muhl. ex Ell. var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Lelong can be prone to certain diseases that can hinder its growth. The most common disease for this plant is rust. Rust is a fungal disease that can appear as yellow to brownish-orange pustules on the leaves. One way to manage rust is to prune off infected leaves and discard them. Fungicidal sprays can also be used to prevent the spread of rust.
Another disease that can affect Panicum strigosum Muhl. ex Ell. var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Lelong is leaf spot. Leaf spot can appear as circular spots that are brown or black in color. They can be managed by removing infected leaves, increasing air circulation around the plant, and utilizing fungicidal sprays.
Pest Management
Panicum strigosum Muhl. ex Ell. var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Lelong can also be vulnerable to certain pests that can cause damage to the plant. One common pest is the spider mite. Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause yellowing and browning of leaves. They can be managed by regularly spraying the plant with water, using insecticidal soap, or introducing natural predators such as ladybugs.
The fall armyworm can also be a pest that affects this plant. Fall armyworms are caterpillars that can cause damage to the leaves and stem of the plant. They can be managed by using insecticides, introducing natural predators, or handpicking them off the plant.
It is important to regularly check Panicum strigosum Muhl. ex Ell. var. glabrescens (Griseb.) Lelong for any signs of disease or pest infestation. Early detection can prevent further damage and ensure healthy growth of the plant.
