Origin
Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb., also known as Rhynchelytrum repens or Melinis repens, is a perennial grass species native to Africa. It is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the continent, including Central, East, and Southern Africa, where it grows in grasslands, savannas, and woodlands.
Common Names
The plant is known by a variety of common names, including Natal red top, Natal grass, river grass, and red top grass. Its name "Natal" is derived from the region where it was first collected in South Africa.
Uses
Rhynchelytrum eylesii has several uses. In Africa, it is used as a forage plant for livestock and wildlife. The plant's leaves are highly nutritious and are consumed by a variety of grazing animals, including cattle, sheep, and antelopes. The seeds are also edible and are used by humans as a source of food. In addition, the plant has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including dysentery, pneumonia, and stomach problems.
Outside of Africa, Rhynchelytrum eylesii is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Its attractive flowers and foliage make it a desirable plant for landscaping, and it is commonly used in borders and as a groundcover. As a result, it has been introduced to several countries and is considered an invasive species in some parts of the world, including South America and the southern United States.
General Appearance
Rhynchelytrum eylesii is a tufted perennial grass that grows up to 1.5 m tall. It has a fibrous root system and produces erect or sprawling stems that are up to 2 m long. The stems are slender, smooth, and round, and bear alternate leaves that are up to 25 cm long and 1 cm wide. The leaves are dark green and glossy and have a prominent midrib. The plant produces attractive inflorescences that are 10-20 cm long and bear numerous spikelets that are densely packed with flowers. The flowers are pink to reddish-purple and are borne on short stalks. The plant blooms from summer to autumn and produces seedheads that are 20-30 cm long and persist into winter.
hereLight Requirements
The Rhynchelytrum eylesii plant thrives in bright, indirect light. This means that they should be placed in a location where they receive natural light for at least six hours but not direct sunlight. The plant can be grown indoors where there is adequate lighting or outdoors in partially shaded areas. Too little light will result in stunted growth and a less vibrant appearance of foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical regions and thus prefers warm temperatures. The ideal range is between 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F). If temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F), the plant will suffer and may die. It is advisable to keep the plant in warmer indoor environments or protect the outdoor plants from cold drafts.
Soil Requirements
Rhynchelytrum eylesii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires soil that is slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Inadequate drainage or waterlogging will result in root rot and ultimately kill the plant. Therefore, it is essential to ensure proper drainage and avoid over-watering the plant.
Cultivation methods for Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb.
Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb., also known as the ruby grass or Mexican feather grass, is an ornamental grass that is easy to grow and maintain. The plant is native to Mexico and South America but can be cultivated in other regions with similar climatic conditions.
The plant can be propagated by seeds or through division. Seeds can be sown in the garden during spring or fall, and division can be done during spring or early summer.
The plant requires well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate drought and heat and is resistant to pests and diseases. It is an excellent choice for gardens, landscapes, and borders.
Watering needs for Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb.
Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb. requires regular watering during the first growing season. Once established, the plant can tolerate drought and only requires watering during extended dry periods. However, it is essential to provide some moisture during prolonged periods of drought.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can damage or kill the plant. To avoid this, it is recommended to water the plant deeply but infrequently.
Fertilization for Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb.
Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb. does not require regular fertilization. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help promote growth and maintain its color. It is important not to overfertilize the plant, as this can result in weak growth and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Pruning for Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb.
Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb. requires minimal pruning. Dead or damaged leaves can be removed during the growing season to improve the plant's appearance. However, significant pruning is not necessary and can damage the plant.
Propagation methods for Rhynchelytrum Eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb
Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb. is a perennial grass that can be propagated through seeds or vegetatively through division or stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds annually, and they can be harvested once they turn brown and start to fall from the ears. The seeds need to be cleaned and dried before storing or sowing. Sowing directly in the garden beds or seed trays is recommended during the warmer months of the year. Cover the seeds lightly with soil, and ensure they are kept moist regularly. Germination typically takes one to two weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Rhynchelytrum eylesii can also be propagated through division or stem cuttings. For division, the plant needs to be dug up and separated into small clumps along with their roots. This can be done during the growing season, and the clumps can be replanted immediately in pots or gardens. For stem cuttings, take stem cuttings during the growing season, cutting below a node and removing any bottom leaves. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mixture. Cover with a plastic bag and maintain high humidity levels to encourage rooting.
Disease and Pest Management for Rhynchelytrum Eylesii
Rhynchelytrum eylesii Stapf & C.E.Hubb. is commonly known as Natal grass, spider grass or wild Petone. The plant is known for its green and lush appearance, thus making it a good option for landscaping and gardening. However, the plant is prone to various diseases and pests which can affect its growth and health. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Rhynchelytrum eylesii and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases such as anthracnose and leaf spots can affect the plant's leaves. These diseases are characterized by yellow and brown spots on the leaves, which can eventually result in leaf drop. To manage fungal diseases, ensure that the plant is not overcrowded, and leaves are not covered with water. You can also apply fungicides that contain copper or sulfur to prevent the spread of fungal diseases.
Viral Diseases: Rhynchelytrum eylesii is also susceptible to viral diseases such as stunt and mosaic virus. These viruses are characterized by stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and distorted growth. To manage viral diseases, remove the affected plants from the garden, as they can spread the virus to healthy plants. It is also advisable to control the insects that may transmit the virus to other plants.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are the most common pests that affect Rhynchelytrum eylesii. These tiny pests feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually drop. To manage spider mites, wash the leaves regularly with water to remove the pests. You can also apply insecticides that contain pyrethrins or neem oil to kill the pests.
Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers are another pest that can affect Rhynchelytrum eylesii. These pests can consume the plant's leaves, causing significant damage to the plant. To manage grasshoppers, use insecticides that contain carbaryl or spinosad to kill the pests.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can ensure that Rhynchelytrum eylesii thrives in your garden or landscape. Regular inspections and monitoring of the plant will help identify any pests or diseases early, thus allowing you to take appropriate measures to control them.
