Purple lovegrass - Eragrostis spectabilis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Purple lovegrass

Also known as: Canegrass, Tumblegrass, Spectacular Love Grass

Purple lovegrass (Eragrostis spectabilis) is a native perennial grass that grows in dense clumps and multiplies through its underground rhizomes and by self-seeding. Purplish-blue flowers bloom in August. Flowers turn brown in fall, dispersing seeds as they are blown away by wind. It thrives in full sun in dry, sandy or rocky soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Purple lovegrass (Eragrostis spectabilis)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Grass

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

30 cm to 85 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Red, Brown, Purple, Violet

Flower Color

Green, Red, Purple, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Purple lovegrass

Attributes of Purple lovegrass

Growth Rate

During its active Spring season, purple lovegrass's growth speed is moderate, leading to an organized and well-distributed maturation process. This development encompasses consistent leaf production and a steady increase in height. This pace allows purple lovegrass to build its hardiness, delicately balancing energy demands. A slower growth rate in cooler seasons is notable but less pronounced.

Distribution of Purple lovegrass

Distribution Map

Purple lovegrass's native range encompasses the temperate and tropical areas of North America's major regions. Over time, it has been introduced and cultivated in various other parts of the world, though it is primarily found in similar climates. As a result, this resilient plant now flourishes beyond its original habitat while retaining a strong presence in its native ecosystem.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal beaches, meadows, fields

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Purple lovegrass is a low-growing grass that is considered showy and suitable for planting in ornamental gardens. It is grown in late season landscapes and is valued for its color change to deep purple-pink at the end of the summer. Purple lovegrass is also planted at perennial garden borders, in meadows, and in open woodland gardens.

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Quickly Identify Purple lovegrass

Fine-textured narrow leaves form tidy tufts, 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall.

Airy reddish-purple inflorescences rise above foliage, turning wheat-like in fall.

Messy panicle inflorescence shifts from reddish-purple to soft brown, 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) long.

Unique dark brown caryopsis fruit, 0.03 inches (0.8 mm) long, with pink-purple hues in autumn.

Dull green, hairy, flat leaves up to 10 inches (25 cm) long, 3/8 inch (1 cm) wide.

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Care Guide for Purple lovegrass

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Purple lovegrass thrives in grasslands, showing high drought tolerance and requiring watering twice a week during growth. It adapts to moisture availability, thriving outdoors in well-draining soil that prevents waterlogging and supports healthy growth cycles.

Fertilize: For purple lovegrass, use mulch or compost in early spring for growth. Apply thin layers around purple lovegrass, avoiding base contact to prevent rot. Post-flowering top-dressing replenishes nutrients. Adjust feeding based on soil fertility, and always water after fertilization for better absorption.

Propagation: Purple lovegrass is propagated by division in Spring or Autumn. This process is moderately easy, with success indicated by new growth. Ensuring adequate moisture and well-draining soil is essential for healthy growth.

Repotting: Repot purple lovegrass every 2-3 years in spring, using a slightly larger pot and well-draining soil to prevent root rot. After repotting, water moderately, place in full sun, and avoid overfertilizing for healthy growth and vibrant purple displays.

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