Origin
Tragus pedunculatus Pilg., also known as bur grass or burr medick, is a plant species that is native to Asia and North Africa. It is now also found in parts of Australia, Europe, and North and South America where it grows as a weed in crops and disturbed areas, including roadsides and waste places.
Common Names
Tragus pedunculatus Pilg. is commonly referred to by several names in different regions. Some of its common names include bur grass, burr medick, burr grass, rabbit burr, roadside burr, Texas burr, clover burr, and woolly burr.
Uses
The seeds of Tragus pedunculatus Pilg. have been used in traditional medicine for their diuretic and tonic properties. They are also sometimes used to treat kidney problems and bladder infections. In some cultures, the plant is used as a source of food for livestock, as the leaves and seeds are rich in protein and other nutrients. The plant is used as a forage crop in some areas and is also used as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion.
General Appearance
Tragus pedunculatus Pilg. is an annual herb that grows up to 50 cm tall. Its leaves are small, alternate, and trifoliate, with oval-shaped leaflets that are usually less than 10 mm in length. The plant produces green, burr-like fruits that are covered in bristles and stick to clothing and fur. The fruit has a characteristic hooked structure that allows it to adhere to passing animals, facilitating seed dispersal. The flowers are small, inconspicuous, and borne in clusters at the top of the stem.
hereGrowth Conditions of Tragus pedunculatus Pilg.
Tragus pedunculatus Pilg., commonly known as wiregrass or tall rat-tail grass, is a type of perennial grass that typically grows in hot and dry environments.
Light Requirements
T. pedunculatus requires a significant amount of sunlight to thrive. The plant prefers full to partial sunlight exposure and can tolerate high intensity of direct sunlight and UV exposure.
Temperature Requirements
This grass is well adapted to warm and arid conditions and prefers temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C. It can withstand extreme heat and drought conditions and is commonly found in desert and semi-arid regions.
Soil Requirements
The wiregrass prefers dry and sandy soil with good drainage that allows water to seep deep into the ground. The plant may also grow well in calcareous soils. T. pedunculatus can tolerate soil with a wide range of pH levels, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. However, the soil must not be too fertile as fertilized soil can lead to aggressive growth and invade other plants' territory.
The growth of T. pedunculatus is vital for the ecological system. It reduces soil erosion, provides nesting and feeding grounds for various animals, and store carbon in the soil contributing to climate change regulations. Understanding the growth conditions required for this plant will also aid in its successful growth and utilization in food, medicine, and landscaping.
Cultivation methods
Tragus pedunculatus Pilg., also known as Windmill grass, is a drought-tolerant plant that is relatively easy to grow. It thrives well in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant can grow up to 50cm tall and has slender leaves that can grow up to 7cm long. It's essential to note that the seeds of this plant can be viable for up to three years. Therefore, it's advisable to plant them as soon as possible to avoid a reduction in germination rates.
Watering needs
Tragus pedunculatus Pilg. requires an adequate amount of water to establish but can tolerate prolonged dry periods. It's essential to water the plant frequently during its initial growth period to promote root growth. Once the plant is well established, it only requires watering when the soil is dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and should be avoided.
Fertilization
Tragus pedunculatus Pilg. grows well in poor soils and does not require much fertilizer. However, adding nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium when planting can encourage root development and enhance growth. Controlled-release fertilizers are also suitable for this plant as they won't damage the sensitive roots.
Pruning
Tragus pedunculatus Pilg. does not require any pruning to maintain its shape or health. However, removing dead or damaged leaves can help to promote new growth. It's also essential to remove any weeds growing around the plant as they can cause competition for nutrients and water.
Propagation of Tragus pedunculatus Pilg.
Tragus pedunculatus Pilg., commonly known as the long-spiked tragus, is a perennial grass native to Africa. It can propagate through various methods, including seed propagation, rhizome division, and stem cuttings.
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Tragus pedunculatus is through seed propagation. The seeds of this plant require an adequate amount of light to germinate, so they should be sown on the surface of the soil. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, during the germination process.
Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted to their permanent location. It is important to note that Tragus pedunculatus can be slow to establish from seed and may take up to a year to reach full maturity.
Rhizome division
Tragus pedunculatus can also be propagated through rhizome division. This method involves dividing the plant's underground rhizomes and replanting them in separate locations. Rhizome division is best done in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
To propagate through rhizome division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the rhizomes. Be sure to keep the roots intact and replant each division in a suitable location with well-draining soil.
Stem cuttings
Propagation of Tragus pedunculatus can also be done through stem cuttings. This method involves taking a portion of stem from the plant and rooting it in moist soil. Stem cuttings should be taken in the early summer when the plant is actively growing and should be around 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and stick the cutting in moist soil. Keep the soil moist and wait for the roots to develop.
Propagation of Tragus pedunculatus can be done through various methods, including seed propagation, rhizome division, and stem cuttings. Proper care and maintenance are essential for successful propagation of this plant.
Disease Management
Tragus pedunculatus Pilg. is relatively resistant to most diseases, but occasionally it may suffer from fungal infections such as leaf spot and rust.
To manage leaf spot, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and a fungicide should be applied to the plant as soon as possible. To prevent the spread of rust, infected plant parts should be pruned, and the plant should be treated with a systemic or contact fungicide.
Pest Management
Common pests that may affect Tragus pedunculatus Pilg. include mites, aphids, and scale insects.
To control mites and aphids, a spray of neem oil, insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can be applied to the plant. If the infestation is severe, a chemical pesticide may be needed. For scale insects, the affected plant parts should be removed and destroyed, and the plant should be treated with a systemic insecticide.
Regular monitoring of the plant and maintaining good plant hygiene can go a long way in preventing disease and pest infestations.
