Purple three-awn - Aristida purpurea (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Purple three-awn

Also known as: Wright three-awn, Nealley three-awn, Fendler's threeawn

Purple three-awn is a native grass that thrives in the dry and sandy soils of the American Southwest. Its name comes from the purple hue of its flowers that bloom in summer, attracting bees and butterflies. This grass also serves as a food source for livestock and wildlife, making it an essential component of many ecosystems. Its long, slender leaves and unique seed heads are easy to identify, adding visual interest to any garden or landscape.

Scientific classification

Species

Purple three-awn (Aristida purpurea)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

49 cm to 1.006 m

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

6 mm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

Purple, Red, Yellow, Brown

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Fall, Winter, Spring

Growth Season

Images of Purple three-awn

Attributes of Purple three-awn

Growth Rate

With a rapid growth rate, purple three-awn showcases an impressive development in Fall, Winter, and Spring. This trait influences an accelerated increase in height, prolific leaf production, and floral emergence, noticeably transforming the plant's appearance. Variations in purple three-awn's growth according to seasonal shifts could offer intriguing horticultural insights, underscoring the resilient adaptability of this species.

Distribution of Purple three-awn

Distribution Map

Purple three-awn is naturally found across a wide spectrum of the North American continent, in both temperate and tropical zones. This plant has expanded its presence beyond its indigenous range, notably established in South America, and is also cultivated in suitable climates for its adaptability and resilience.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry hills and plains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Purple three-awn

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Purple three-awn is well-suited to arid environments, demonstrating high drought tolerance with minimal moisture needs. It requires infrequent watering, typically every two weeks. More commonly cultivated outdoors, purple three-awn exhibits resilience, maintaining its health even in dry conditions during the growing season.

Fertilize: Purple three-awn thrives with minimal care. Fertilize sparingly during growth using balanced fertilizers, adjusting for rainfall. Over-fertilization weakens hardiness. Water thoroughly after application to prevent root burn. Prioritize feeding in early spring for mature plants to enhance growth.

Pruning: Purple three-awn features wiry, upright growth and purple awns, benefiting from minimal pruning. Early spring is ideal for pruning to encourage vigorous growth and reduce disease risks. Remove dead stems, cut back older growth for new shoots, and enhance airflow and sunlight for healthier development.

Propagation: Propagate purple three-awn by sowing seeds in well-drained soil for optimal germination. Cover seeds lightly to safeguard them, and maintain moisture through regular watering without waterlogging. Once germination occurs, gradually reduce watering to promote robust root development.

Repotting: Spring is the best time to repot purple three-awn every 2-3 years into a slightly larger container with good drainage. After repotting, place purple three-awn in full sun and minimize watering to promote healthy growth.

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