Origin and Common Names
Rhynchelytrum ascendens (Mez) Stapf & C.E.Hubb. is a species of perennial grass that belongs to the Andropogoneae tribe of the Poaceae family. It is commonly known as the Narrow-leaved Fountain Grass or simply Fountain Grass. This plant is native to South America, specifically in Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, but is also found in Central America and the Caribbean.
Uses
Rhynchelytrum ascendens is known for its ornamental value. Its graceful and upright growth habit makes it a popular choice for landscaping. It is often planted for erosion control, as it has a strong root system that holds soil in place. This grass is also used for hay production, as it is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas where other crops may fail. In traditional medicine, Rhynchelytrum ascendens is used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems, menstrual irregularities, and respiratory infections.
General Appearance
Rhynchelytrum ascendens grows up to 1.5 meters tall and forms clumps up to 1 meter wide. The leaves are long, narrow, and sharply pointed, measuring about 30-60 cm in length and 4-8 mm in width. The inflorescence is a panicle that can grow up to 30 cm long and 10 cm wide. The flowers are small, with reddish-purple spikelets that bloom in late summer to early fall. The seeds are light brown and about 2 mm long. This grass prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Light Requirements
Rhynchelytrum ascendens (Mez) Stapf & C.E.Hubb. requires full sunlight exposure to grow properly. It is recommended to plant it in areas with direct sunlight for at least six hours daily. Shade is not suitable for growth, and the plant may fail to thrive if grown in the shade.
Temperature Requirements
The recommended temperature range for growing Rhynchelytrum ascendens (Mez) Stapf & C.E.Hubb. is between 20°C to 25°C. The plant can tolerate high temperatures up to 35°C and can survive in cool temperatures of up to 0°C. However, frost can damage the foliage, and it is best to protect the plant during the cold winter months.
Soil Requirements
Rhynchelytrum ascendens (Mez) Stapf & C.E.Hubb. thrives best in well-draining fertile soil. It can grow in various types of soil, but it prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.1-6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and adding compost or other organic matter will improve soil fertility and structure. Soil that is too sandy or too clayey may hurt the growth of this plant.
Cultivation Methods
Rhynchelytrum ascendens, also known as Mexican Feather Grass, is an ornamental, warm-season grass that can be grown in USDA zones 6 to 10. This grass species thrives in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The soil should be well-draining with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It is recommended to apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress the growth of weeds.
Watering Needs
Mexican Feather Grass has a moderate drought tolerance and needs regular watering, especially during the first growing season. After the establishment of the plant, it can tolerate dry conditions and only requires occasional watering. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Ideally, the grass should receive about an inch of water per week.
Fertilization
Rhynchelytrum ascendens does not require much fertilization but can benefit from an annual application of slow-release fertilizer in the spring. The fertilizer should be applied around the base of the plant, ensuring that it does not come into contact with the foliage. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth and floppy stems.
Pruning
Pruning Mexican Feather Grass is not necessary except for cosmetic reasons or to control them from spreading to unwanted areas. The best time to remove dead or damaged stems is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Use clean and sharp garden scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems down to the ground level or to the height you desire. Mexican feather grass may self-seed and become invasive, so it is essential to deadhead the flowers once they start to fade before they can spread.
Propagation of Rhynchelytrum Ascendens
Rhynchelytrum ascendens (Mez) Stapf & C.E. Hubb. is commonly known as Sabana seca. It is a grass species native to Central and South America and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most feasible way of propagating Rhynchelytrum ascendens. Collect the seeds from the plant's flower spike when they are dark brown, indicating physiological maturity. Remove the chaff and soak the seeds overnight prior to planting. Prepare a seed bed with soil that is well-draining and rich in nutrients. Plant the seeds 0.5 to 1 cm deep into the soil and water it thoroughly. Keep the soil moist and place the seed bed in a sheltered area with partial shade. The seeds will sprout within 2 to 3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted once they reach a height of 8 to 10 cm.
DIVISION
Propagation by division is a practical method for Rhynchelytrum ascendens, requiring an established plant. It is best done during early spring. Dig out the entire clump, being careful not to damage the roots, and use a sharp and sterile knife to separate the clump into two or three parts. Each part should have an adequate amount of roots and stems. Replant each part into well-draining soil and water it thoroughly. It is best to provide partial shade and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight until the plant is established.
CUTTINGS
Propagation by stem cuttings is an easy and quick method of cloning Rhynchelytrum ascendens. Choose a healthy stem that is green, mature, and has no signs of disease or pest damage. The best time for stem cutting is during early spring and summer. Cut a stem that is about 5 to 6 inches long with a sharp and sterile knife. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem about 2 to 3 inches, and dip the bottom end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the stem in a well-draining potting mix that is moist but not wet. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag or place it in a humid place with partial shade. Mist the cutting daily to ensure the soil remains moist. After two to three weeks, the cutting should develop roots, and once they are well-established, it can be transplanted into a permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Rhynchelytrum ascendens
Rhynchelytrum ascendens, commonly known as Mexican feather grass, is a beautiful ornamental grass that adds texture and movement to gardens. Like all plants, it is vulnerable to disease and pest infestations. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Mexican feather grass, as well as tips to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal Diseases: Mexican feather grass is prone to fungal diseases, such as rust and leaf spots. Symptoms of these diseases include yellowing or browning of the leaves, and small to large brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage these diseases, remove any infected leaves as soon as possible. Improve air circulation by spacing plants out and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides may be necessary in severe cases.
Bacterial Leaf Blight: This disease affects the leaves of Mexican feather grass and is caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae. Symptoms include water-soaked lesions on the leaves which later turn brown and papery. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant material. Avoid overhead watering and prevent overcrowding of the plants.
Pests
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can wreak havoc on Mexican feather grass, sucking sap from the leaves and causing them to dry out and turn yellow. To manage spider mites, spray plants with a strong stream of water to knock them off. Encourage the presence of natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil may be used.
Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers can cause significant damage to Mexican feather grass by devouring the leaves. To manage grasshoppers, cover the plants with lightweight row covers. Handpick any grasshoppers that manage to get past the row covers. In severe cases, insecticides may be necessary.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can keep your Mexican feather grass healthy and beautiful.
