Overview
Rhynchelytrum tomentosum (Rendle) Stapf & C.E.Hubb. is a species of grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. This plant is native to several African countries, including Angola, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Commonly known as the weeping lovegrass, this plant is cultivated as a forage crop and has several other uses.
Appearance
The weeping lovegrass is a perennial grass that grows up to 1.5 metres tall. It has erect stems with numerous branches that spread outwards horizontally. The leaves are narrow and flat with pointed tips, measuring around 50cm in length and 5mm in width. The plant is covered in soft, dense hairs, giving it a fuzzy appearance. The inflorescence is erect, with purple or green spikelets that are around 10cm long. The plant produces seeds in the autumn and winter.
Uses
The weeping lovegrass is widely cultivated for use as a forage crop, particularly in dry areas where other grasses struggle to grow. It is a highly nutritious plant, containing high levels of protein and vitamins. In addition to its use as a forage crop, the weeping lovegrass is also used in soil conservation, erosion control, and land reclamation projects. Its dense root system helps to stabilise soils and prevent erosion, making it ideal for use on hillsides, riverbanks, and other areas prone to soil erosion.
The weeping lovegrass also has several medicinal uses. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fevers, stomach complaints, and respiratory illnesses. The roots and leaves of the plant are boiled and the resulting decoction is used to treat various ailments. The plant is also used in some cultures to make a tea that is believed to have sedative properties.
In addition to its practical uses, the weeping lovegrass is also grown as an ornamental plant. Its attractive appearance and soft, fuzzy texture make it a popular choice for landscaping and garden design. It can be grown in pots or as a border plant, and its long-lasting inflorescence can be used in floral arrangements.
Light Requirements
Rhynchelytrum tomentosum is a sun-loving plant that requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate up to six hours of direct sunlight each day, but will still thrive in bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions, and therefore prefers warm temperatures. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11, where the minimum temperature is about 20°F (-6°C). The optimal temperature range for growth is 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C).
Soil Requirements
Rhynchelytrum tomentosum prefers well-draining soils that are moist to moderately dry. The plant can tolerate a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, and can grow in a variety of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay. However, it may struggle in heavy clay soils that do not drain well.
To improve soil fertility, incorporate compost or other organic matter before planting. Mulching around the base of the plant can also help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Cultivation Methods
Rhynchelytrum tomentosum, also known as Mexican feather grass or pony tails, can be grown both indoors and outdoors. When cultivated outdoors, the plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. For indoor cultivation, choose a sunny spot with good ventilation.
You can propagate this plant through seed or division. If planting through seed, sow them in a seed tray or pot. For division, split the clumps into smaller pieces and plant them in the desired location.
Watering Needs
Watering of Rhynchelytrum tomentosum requires a careful balance. Overwatering leads to root rot, while underwatering can stress the plant. During the growing season, water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Reduce watering in the winter to prevent waterlogging, only water when the soil surface is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Feed your Rhynchelytrum tomentosum during the growing season using a balanced all-purpose fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer every four to six weeks following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid overfertilizing, which can lead to scorching of the foliage. During the winter dormant period, reduce feeding to allow the plant to rest.
Pruning
Pruning of Rhynchelytrum tomentosum is not necessary, but it can help to maintain the plant's shape and vigor. Use a sharp, sterile pair of scissors or pruners to remove any dried or damaged leaves. You can also trim the tips of the leaves to prevent seed formation and keep the plant looking tidy.
To prevent the plant from seeding everywhere, consider removing the seed heads before they dry out. Mexican feather grass can be vigorous, and a hard pruning every few years can help to rejuvenate the plant.
Propagation of Rhynchelytrum tomentosum
Rhynchelytrum tomentosum can be propagated through both seeds and vegetative methods.
Propagation through Seeds
The plant produces seeds that can be collected when they are mature. The seeds should be cleaned and sown in trays or pots filled with well-draining soil mix. They should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will germinate within 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots when they are big enough to handle.
Vegetative Propagation
Rhynchelytrum tomentosum can also be propagated through division and stem cuttings. Division involves separating the clumps of the plant into smaller sections, each with a few stems and some roots. The divisions can then be planted in individual pots or directly in the ground. Stem cuttings should be taken from fresh, young shoots, and each cutting should have at least one node. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil mix. They should be kept moist and warm until they develop roots and can be transplanted.
Disease Management
Common diseases that might affect Rhynchelytrum tomentosum include leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. Leaf spot can cause circular or irregularly shaped brown or gray spots on the leaves. Rust leads to the formation of yellow, orange, or brown powdery masses of spores on the leaves and stems. Powdery mildew causes a white powdery coating on the leaves.
To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves and keep the area clean. Avoid overhead watering and apply a fungicide labeled for use on Rhynchelytrum tomentosum. Rust can be managed by pruning affected branches, removing fallen leaves, and applying a fungicide. For powdery mildew management, prune stems to increase air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide.
Pest Management
The main pests that might affect Rhynchelytrum tomentosum are spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Spider mites cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Aphids can cause distorted growth, a sticky residue on the leaves, and a decrease in plant vigor. Mealybugs lead to a sticky residue on the leaves and stunted growth.
To manage spider mites, rinse the plant with a strong spray of water and remove heavily infested leaves. Applying insecticidal soap or a miticide can also be effective. For aphids management, rinse the plant with a strong spray of water and remove infected leaves. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can be introduced to the plant as a biological control. Mealybugs can be managed by wiping the affected parts with alcohol-soaked cotton balls and applying an insecticidal soap.
