Southern sandbur - Cenchrus echinatus (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Southern sandbur

Also known as: Mossman river grass, Mat sandbur, Spiny burrgrass, Bur-grass

Southern sandbur (Cenchrus echinatus) is a clumping grass originally native to the tropical regions of the Americas. It is now found all over the tropics and is considered an invasive weed in some places, such as Australia. The spiny seeds of southern sandbur can attach to fur or clothing, and potentially puncture the skin.

Scientific classification

Species

Southern sandbur (Cenchrus echinatus)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

All year round

Bloom Time

Yellow, Green, Purple, Brown

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Southern sandbur

Distribution of Southern sandbur

Distribution Map

Southern sandbur is widely distributed across continents, native to regions in Central and South America. Its presence extends to various parts of Asia, Africa, Europe, and some Pacific islands, indicating its role as an introduced species in these areas. In certain regions, including the Pacific, Southeast Asia, as well as South America where it is not native, southern sandbur is sometimes thought to impact native ecosystems. However, details regarding the extent of its cultivation were not provided for integration into this summary.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Disturbed areas, sand, forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Southern sandbur

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Southern sandbur flourishes in tropical-like environments, needing consistent moisture and weekly watering for healthy growth. Once established, it retains water moderately well and can tolerate drought. It is also resilient during heavy rain, making it a suitable choice for warmer climates.

Fertilize: For southern sandbur, use balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizers during active growth in spring and summer, every 4-6 weeks. Follow manufacturer rates to prevent damage. Young southern sandbur may need more frequent feeding. Always water after fertilizing to enhance nutrient absorption and avoid root burn.

Pruning: Southern sandbur features spiky burs and requires regular pruning from early to late spring to enhance health and control its spread. Mowing or cutting to ground level before seeding reduces burs, promoting growth and minimizing invasiveness for better garden management.

Propagation: Southern sandbur is propagated by sowing fresh seeds in well-draining soil to avoid rot. Lightly cover seeds for adequate contact and keep the soil moist until germination. Ensure sufficient spacing between seedlings for proper development of their bur-like seed heads.

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Images of Southern sandbur

Distribution of Southern sandbur

Care Guide for Southern sandbur

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