Origin:
Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill is a plant species that is native to the highlands of Lesotho and South Africa. It was first discovered and described by William Vernon Jackson, a British botanist, in 1917.
Common Names:
This plant is commonly known as Lesotho feathergrass or mountain hardgrass. The name "feathergrass" comes from the plant's slender and delicate appearance, while "hardgrass" refers to its ability to tolerate harsh environmental conditions due to its deep root system.
Uses:
Lesotho feathergrass is primarily used for erosion control due to its hardiness and deep root system. Its seeds are also used as a famine food by the Basotho people. Additionally, the grass is sometimes used for thatching roofs and making brooms.
Appearance:
Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill is a clumping grass that can grow up to a meter in height. Its leaves are thin and wiry, and its stems are slender and delicate, giving the plant a feather-like appearance. The grass produces small seed heads that are green in color and turn brown as they mature. Overall, Lesotho feathergrass has an elegant and delicate appearance, despite its hardiness and ability to thrive in harsh environments.
Light Requirements
The Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill thrives in full sunlight. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to grow properly. Lack of adequate sunlight can lead to stunted growth and weak stems.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in moderate to warm temperatures. It prefers temperatures between 15°C to 25°C but can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 30°C for a short period. Cold temperatures and frost can damage the plant, while extremely high temperatures can lead to heat stress.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers moist soils with good drainage and high nutrient content. It can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the ideal soil pH for optimal growth ranges from 6.0 to 6.5. It cannot tolerate waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot and other soil-borne diseases.
Cultivation
Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill is a hardy plant that can be grown outdoors in temperate climates. It thrives in well-draining soils that are slightly acidic and high in organic matter. The plant should be placed in a location with full sun exposure or partial shade for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill requires regular watering to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and the amount of rainfall, but generally, the plant should be watered at least once a week, more during periods of drought or hot weather. It is also important to avoid overhead watering to prevent the foliage from getting wet, which increases the risk of disease.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill every four to six weeks during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizer application should be done carefully to avoid burning the plant's roots. It is also advisable to apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Pruning
Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill requires minimal pruning. It is essential to remove any dead or damaged stems and flowers as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease. Additionally, trimming back the old foliage at the end of each growing season helps to rejuvenate the plant and promote healthy new growth. However, it is important not to over-prune the plant, as this can affect its overall health and vigor.
Propagation of Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill
The Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill plant can be propagated through different methods, which are as follows:
Seed propagation
The plant can be grown from seed, which can be collected from the ripe fruits and sown in a well-drained soil mix. It is recommended to sow the seeds in a seed tray and cover them with a thin layer of sand. The seed tray should be covered with a transparent plastic sheet to maintain humidity. The ideal temperature for germination is around 20-25°C, and the seedlings should appear in 3-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed two to three true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Vegetative propagation
The Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill plant can also be propagated vegetatively. This method involves taking stem cuttings from an established plant. The stem cuttings should be around 5-10 cm long and have a few leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting it in a well-prepared potting soil. The cutting should be kept in a warm and slightly humid environment until rooting occurs, which may take several weeks.
Division
Another method of propagation is through division. The plant can be divided into smaller clumps during the dormant season, preferably in late winter or early spring. The clumps should be carefully lifted out of the soil and divided into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a good root system. The divided sections can be replanted in individual pots or directly in the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill
Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill, commonly known as the Basuto bluegrass, is a perennial plant native to southern Africa. Though it is a low-maintenance plant, it is still susceptible to certain pests and diseases that can damage or even kill the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect this plant, along with ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Leaf spot: This fungal disease appears as circular brown spots on the leaves, and it can cause them to yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Treat the plant with a fungicide, and ensure adequate air circulation around the plant to prevent the spread of the disease.
Crown rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani and is characterized by the rotting of the plant's crown. The plant may also wilt and show signs of stunted growth. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plants and avoid overcrowding. Prevent the disease by planting in well-drained soil and avoiding over-watering.
Common Pests
Aphids: These small insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant's leaves and even stunt its growth. A strong stream of water can quickly remove aphids from the plant. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
Spider mites: These pests are common in dry conditions and can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Use a strong stream of water to dislodge the mites from the plant and spray with a miticide if the infestation is severe.
By maintaining proper care and promptly addressing any issues that may arise, you can keep your Schoenoxiphium basutorum Turrill healthy and thriving for years to come.
