Origin
Schismus barbatus (Loefl. ex L.) Thell. subsp. calycinus (Loefl.) Maire & Weiller, also known as Mediterranean grass, is native to the Mediterranean region of Europe.
Common Names
Schismus barbatus is commonly known by a variety of names including Mediterranean grass, double whorl grass, and common Mediterranean beard grass.
General Appearance
Schismus barbatus is a highly adaptable, annual grass typically growing only up to 12 inches in height. It is characterized by fine, hair-like leaves that have a bluish-green tint. The plant produces small, spike-like flowers that range in color from green to purple. Its roots are shallow and wiry, helping them to establish quickly and survive in harsh conditions.
Uses
Despite its small size and unassuming appearance, Schismus barbatus has a variety of uses. Its adaptability and fast growth rate make this grass a popular choice for erosion control along roadsides and in agricultural fields. Additionally, it is often used as a forage crop for livestock due to its nutritional value. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including kidney disease.
Light Requirements
Schismus barbatus subsp. calycinus can grow in full sunlight or partial shade. However, it typically prefers full sunlight and may not thrive if grown in too much shade.
Temperature Requirements
Schismus barbatus subsp. calycinus is a heat-loving plant that grows well in warm to hot temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures up to 40°C (104°F) and is often found in arid regions. However, it may struggle in areas with cold temperatures below 15°C (59°F) and may not survive frost.
Soil Requirements
Schismus barbatus subsp. calycinus prefers well-draining soils with low to moderate fertility. It can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, this plant does not grow well in waterlogged soils and may suffer from root rot if the soil remains moist for prolonged periods. Additionally, it prefers alkaline or neutral soils with a pH between 7 and 8.
Cultivation methods for Schismus barbatus (Loefl. ex L.) Thell. subsp. calycinus (Loefl.) Maire & Weiller
Schismus barbatus (Loefl. ex L.) Thell. subsp. calycinus (Loefl.) Maire & Weiller is a drought-resistant plant species that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, from sandy to loamy, and even in poor soil conditions.
It is usually propagated by seeds, but it can also be propagated by cuttings. Planting is best done in the spring season when the soil is warm enough for the seed to germinate well.
Watering needs for Schismus barbatus (Loefl. ex L.) Thell. subsp. calycinus (Loefl.) Maire & Weiller
Schismus barbatus (Loefl. ex L.) Thell. subsp. calycinus (Loefl.) Maire & Weiller doesn't require much water and is drought-resistant. However, you must water it occasionally, especially during the establishment period and when the weather is extremely dry.
It's best to water the plant deeply and infrequently to encourage the roots to reach deep into the soil and become more drought-resistant.
Fertilization for Schismus barbatus (Loefl. ex L.) Thell. subsp. calycinus (Loefl.) Maire & Weiller
Schismus barbatus (Loefl. ex L.) Thell. subsp. calycinus (Loefl.) Maire & Weiller doesn't require much fertilizer as it can grow well in poor soil conditions. You may fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release organic fertilizer during the planting season.
Avoid using excessive fertilizers as it can lead to weak growth and pest problems.
Pruning for Schismus barbatus (Loefl. ex L.) Thell. subsp. calycinus (Loefl.) Maire & Weiller
Schismus barbatus (Loefl. ex L.) Thell. subsp. calycinus (Loefl.) Maire & Weiller doesn't require much pruning as it is a low-growing plant. However, it's still necessary to trim the plant annually to remove dead leaves and promote bushy growth.
You can prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation Methods for Schismus Barbatus (Loefl. Ex L.) Thell. Subsp. Calycinus (Loefl.) Maire & Weiller
Schismus barbatus is a hardy, evergreen plant that spreads quickly and forms dense mats. There are several methods that can be used to propagate this plant, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Schismus barbatus is by seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature plants in the late summer or early fall. The collected seeds must be dried and stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. When it's time to plant, the seeds must be scarified (scratched or nicked) with a knife or sandpaper to break their hard outer shell. The seeds are then sowed into well-drained soil in the spring at a depth of 2-3 cm. Seedlings will emerge after 7-10 days.
Division
The division method of propagation is suitable for mature plants of Schismus barbatus. The process involves digging up the entire plant and separating it gently into smaller clumps. Each new clump should have several stems and roots. The clumps should be planted in moist soil, a few centimeters deeper than they previously grew. This method of propagation is best done in the fall or early spring.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another way to propagate Schismus barbatus. The process involves taking a 5-10 cm cutting from the tip of the stem. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be planted into moist soil, ideally mixed with sand, and kept in shaded, humid conditions till they root. Rooting usually takes about 4-6 weeks.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, it is important to be vigilant about watering and fertilization of the new plants till they develop a strong root system and establish themselves in their new habitat.
Disease Management
Schismus barbatus subsp. calycinus is susceptible to a few diseases that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some of the most common diseases and ways to manage them:
Leaf Rust
Leaf rust is a fungal disease that causes yellowish-brown lesions on the leaves. Severe infection can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. The disease can be managed by applying fungicides before the onset of the rainy season. Maintaining good air circulation and removing infected plant parts can also reduce the spread of the disease.
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is a soil-borne fungal disease that causes wilting, yellowing, and stunting of the plant. The disease spreads through contaminated soil, water, and infected plant debris. Crop rotation, soil solarization, and application of fungicides can help manage the disease.
Root Rot
Root rot is a disease caused by several fungi that attack the roots of the plant. The first sign of infection is the yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Eventually, the plant collapses due to root damage. Avoid over-watering and improve soil drainage to manage the disease. Use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Schismus barbatus subsp. calycinus is mostly insect-free; however, some pests can attack the plant and cause damage. Here are some of the most common pests and ways to manage them:
Cutworms
Cutworms are the larvae of several moth species that feed on the stem of the plant, cutting it off at the base. To manage cutworms, apply insecticides to the soil and around the base of the plant. Handpicking the larvae and destroying them can also help control the pest.
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and stunting of the leaves. They also excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew that attracts other pests. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pest. Natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can also help manage the infestation.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that attack the plant in hot and dry conditions, causing yellowing and discoloration of the leaves. They spin webs on the leaves, which can reduce the plant's aesthetic value. Spray the plant with water regularly to keep the mites away. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pest.
