Nineawn pappusgrass (Enneapogon desvauxii)

Nineawn pappusgrass

Also known as: Spike pappusgras

A variety of bunchgrass, nineawn pappusgrass is a short herb with a few hairy, thready leaves. It has an incredibly broad range, showing up in dry, temperate grasslands and wastes all over the world. It is considered an invasive weed in some regions, for its habit of invading pastures and grainfields.

Scientific classification

Species

Nineawn pappusgrass (Enneapogon desvauxii)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Late summer, Fall

Harvest Time

10 cm to 40 cm

Plant Height

6 cm to 14 cm

Spread

6 mm to 1.1 cm

Flower Size

White, Green, Brown

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Nineawn pappusgrass

Distribution of Nineawn pappusgrass

Distribution Map

Nineawn pappusgrass exhibits a broad native range across the continents of Africa and Asia, stretching to encompass the arid and semi-arid zones, as well as parts of South America. Its presence is particularly notable in regions characterized by grasslands and savannahs. Additionally, nineawn pappusgrass has been introduced to certain temperate areas in Europe, continuing to thrive beyond its original habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry rocky slopes, mesas, rock outcrops and cliffs

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Nineawn pappusgrass

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Nineawn pappusgrass is highly drought-tolerant, thriving with minimal moisture and sustaining prolonged dry periods. Watering once a week suffices. It performs better outdoors, benefiting from natural rainfall, making it ideal for xeriscaping in dry climates.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, nineawn pappusgrass requires organic mulch or compost for nutrients and biannual fertilization in spring and late summer. Apply a 2-inch layer around its base, avoiding stems. Adjust fertilizer quantity based on size, ensure post-application watering, and monitor for over-fertilization.

Pruning: Nineawn pappusgrass features drought resistance and a tufted appearance. Prune in early spring to remove dead stems and promote healthy growth, while avoiding heavy pruning to reduce stress. Proper techniques improve air circulation, light penetration, and the plant's overall resilience and aesthetics.

Propagation: Nineawn pappusgrass thrives in arid rangelands and is propagated by sowing seeds in well-prepared soil. Keep the soil moist until germination, then reduce watering gradually. Lightly covering seeds protects them from wildlife, simulating natural rain patterns to support the plant's low-water adaptability.

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