Cogongrass - Imperata cylindrica (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Cogongrass

Also known as: Bladey grass, Silver spikegrass, Alang-alang

Cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) grows in pointed, sharp blades. It is highly flammable even when green, but can recolonize an area quickly after a wildfire because the underground rhizomes do not burn. This species is used to thatch roofs in Southeast Asian residences. It’s also used to weave bags and mats.

Scientific classification

Species

Cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer, Late summer

Bloom Time

60 cm to 3 m

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green, Red

Leaf Color

3 cm

Flower Size

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Cogongrass

Distribution of Cogongrass

Distribution Map

Cogongrass is native to a range of environments across continents including Africa, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. It has been introduced to parts of South America, as well as certain other regions. In areas where cogongrass is not native, it is sometimes thought to affect local ecosystems and may be considered invasive; particularly in some Asia-Pacific countries and the Americas, where it may have an impact on natural habitats.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

River or the sea shore

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

One of the most attractive ornamental grasses, cogongrass has striking red blades that add excitement to an average garden. It works great as an accent plant for borders and beds and looks best in middle positions. En masse, it can be used as an attractive warm-season groundcover or in groups as an edging plant. It is also an ideal choice to brighten up rock gardens.

Symbolism

Psychic powers, Protection. It symbolizes food, concealment and hardiness.

Interesting Facts

Cogongrass has a surprising adaptation to fire. It burns very easily, and its density of stalks makes the fire burn hotter and longer than with other grasses. This helps ensure the fire consumes all competing plants. Afterward, the cogongrass resprouts quickly from underground rhizomes that are unaffected by the flames.

Name Story

Cogongrass: The name cogongrass has roots in the Philippines. In local Tagalog and Visayan languages, it is called "kugon." This was incorporated into Spanish as "cogón" during the country's colonial rule, and eventually made its way to other languages, including English.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Cogongrass, including the following common varieties :

Cogongrass 'Red Baron'Cogongrass 'Rubra'

Weed Control

Cogongrass is a perennial grass, widely used as thatch to help facilitate lawn growth. While it's useful for decoration, erosion control, and making paper, cogongrass can also displace native plant species.

How to Control It

Early spring or late fall is the best time to remove cogongrass as the plant's vitality is beginning to ramp up or wane during these periods. It's critical to remove the weed before it has a chance to flower and disperse its seeds.

Hand pulling: If the infestation is small, remove the cogongrass manually. Wear gloves, grasp the base of the plant, and pull firmly to remove the grass and its root system.
Solarization: Start by mowing or cutting down the cogongrass to the ground. Next, wet the area thoroughly so that the heat can penetrate deeper. Now, cover the area with a clear plastic tarp. The sun's rays will heat the soil under the plastic, killing the cogongrass. It's best to leave the plastic on for at least six weeks during a hot part of the year.
Organic herbicide: Use a natural herbicide like acetic acid (found in vinegar) or citric acid to kill cogongrass. Spray the solution directly onto the plant making certain to wet the foliage thoroughly. It's often best to do this on a hot, sunny day as the sun helps to activate the acids.
Smothering: Mow down the cogongrass to the ground and then cover the area with layers of cardboard or newspaper, followed by a thick layer of mulch. The idea is to block out light and physically prevent cogongrass from growing above the barrier. Over time, the weed underneath the covering will die off.
Utilizing goats: Surprisingly, goats can help control cogongrass as they are happy to eat it. Allowing goats to graefully this invasive plant can help control its spread and provide a natural, organic weed control method.

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Quickly Identify Cogongrass

Upright, elongate foliage reaching 4 feet (1.2 meters) with reddish tips.

Feathery, silver-white plumes above foliage during flowering season.

Plume-like inflorescence with white, hairy panicle measuring 12 inches (30 cm) long.

Dry, fluffy caryopsis concealed in fuzzy, white seed heads for wind dispersal.

Linear, stiff, yellow-green leaves up to 30 inches (76 cm) long with serrated edges.

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Care Guide for Cogongrass

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cogongrass prefers moist conditions and can tolerate drought periods. A weekly watering schedule is recommended. It is adaptable to different climate zones, thriving in both rainy and dry spells, showcasing an impressive growth cycle.

Fertilize: Cogongrass requires balanced nutrition with equal NPK fertilizers (e.g., 10-10-10) for optimal growth. Apply approximately 1/2 pound per 100 square feet quarterly, with increased frequency in spring and summer. Water before and after fertilization to prevent root burn and improve nutrient absorption.

Propagation: Cogongrass is an invasive species characterized by its adaptability. Successful propagation requires controlled environments, with sowing in sterilized seed beds ensuring healthy growth. Optimal germination is supported by minimal seed depth, sufficient sunlight, and maintained soil moisture for a strong root system.

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