Origin and Common Names
The Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut is a grass species that belongs to the family Poaceae. This plant is indigenous to South Africa, but it can also be found in other parts of Africa, Asia, and Australia. It has several common names such as Bushveld Red Top, Red Buffalo Grass, and Kalahari Red Top.
General Appearance
The Bushveld Red Top has a bunch-type growth habit with a height that ranges from 30 to 130 cm. It has a dense and extensive root system that allows it to withstand drought and survive difficult conditions. The leaves are flat, long, and pointed, with a width of about 5mm, and are often light-green in color. The inflorescence is composed of spike-like panicles that can reach up to 40 cm long and are often covered with soft, silky, and reddish-brown hairs that give it its unique appearance.
Uses
The Red Buffalo Grass has various uses and benefits. It is highly valued as a forage grass for cattle, goats, and sheep. It has a high yield capacity and can produce grazing for a long period. The plant’s dense and extensive root system also makes it an excellent erosion control agent. Furthermore, it is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and skin infections. The seeds are also consumed by birds, providing a valuable source of food for wildlife.
Light Requirements
Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut typically thrives in bright and direct sunlight. It prefers a bright and sunny location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, but the growth might be slower.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in warm temperatures, ranging from 20 to 35°C. It can tolerate high temperatures and drought conditions, but it cannot survive prolonged exposure to frost or extremely cold temperatures. Therefore, it is recommended that the Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut be grown in areas with warm temperatures throughout the year.
Soil Requirements
The Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut prefers well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. It grows best in sandy or loamy soils that can support its root system and provide enough nutrients for growth. The soil pH level should range between 6.0 to 7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral. Fertile soils enhance the growth of this plant, and it is recommended to use organic fertilizers to enrich the soil. Additionally, the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, especially during its establishment phase.
Cultivation Methods
Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut, also known as hairy seed heads fountain grass, is a hardy plant that is easy to cultivate. The plant prefers a well-drained sandy loam soil with a neutral pH level. It will tolerate a wide range of soil types but not waterlogged soils. It requires full sun exposure and should be planted in an open area where it can get plenty of air circulation. The plant can be propagated through seed sowing or vegetative propagation.
Watering Needs
Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut requires regular watering during the growing season to keep the soil consistently moist. Water the plant thoroughly once a week or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering and waterlogging the soil. In winter, reduce watering to once every two weeks or as necessary. Water the plant early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize water loss through evaporation.
Fertilization
The plant does not require frequent fertilization. A yearly application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is enough to provide the necessary nutrients. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant and water in thoroughly. Avoid applying fertilizer in late summer or early fall to prevent stimulating new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Pruning
Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut does not require regular pruning but can benefit from an occasional trim to shape it or promote new growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back any dead, damaged, or diseased stems to the base of the plant. To promote new growth, cut back the top half of the plant to a third or half of its height. Remove any faded or withered flowers as soon as possible to prevent self-seeding and ensure a neat appearance.
Propagation of Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut
Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut is commonly known as the Hairy rhachis fountain grass. It is a warm-season perennial grass that grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. Propagation of this grass can be done using two main methods - division and seeds.
Propagation by Division
The division is the most common and easiest method of propagating Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut. The mature clumps of the grass can be dug up and divided into smaller portions, each with a few shoots. The best time for division is during the spring season, at the onset of new growth. Ensure that each divided portion has a good root system before planting it in the soil.
Propagation by Seeds
Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut can also be propagated using seeds. Collect the seeds from the mature grass during the autumn season, just before the first frost. Soak the seeds in water for a day or two before planting them in the soil. Ensure that the soil is moist and well-draining, and keep the soil consistently warm (around 70°F) until germination occurs (which usually takes about two weeks).
Overall, both division and seed propagation of Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut are relatively easy methods to propagate this beautiful grass.
Disease Management
Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut is prone to a number of diseases that can negatively impact its growth and production. The common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Fungal leaf spot: Fungal leaf spot is common in plants that are grown in damp and humid conditions. It appears as small, circular spots on the leaves.
- Rust: Rust is recognized by reddish-brown spots appearing on the plant leaves.
To manage these diseases, it is important to carefully monitor the plant for any signs of infection. Regular pruning and removing fallen leaves from around the plant can help in reducing the spread of these diseases. Fungicides may be applied as a preventative measure.
Pest Management
Some pests that are known to trouble Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. var. pubirhachis Berhaut are:
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow and curl.
- Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the plant at night, causing the plant to wilt and sometimes die.
To manage these pests, introduce natural predators and parasites such as ladybirds and parasitic wasps. Insecticides may also be used, but careful attention should be paid to ensure that the application is not harmful to non-target organisms, including beneficial insects and pollinators.
