Bitter panicgrass (Panicum amarum)

Bitter panicgrass

Also known as: Dune panicgrass

Bitter panicgrass belongs to the grass family. It clumps and spreads by specialized stems and mostly inhabits coastal beaches and dunes. Bitter panicgrass is a good soil erosion control and stabilizer of degraded land areas. This grass is an 'endangered plant' in Connecticut and Rhode Island, United States.

Scientific classification

Species

Bitter panicgrass (Panicum amarum)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Grass

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

15 cm to 30 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Bitter panicgrass

Attributes of Bitter panicgrass

Growth Rate

During the summer, bitter panicgrass exhibits a moderate growth rate, progressively increasing its size and density. Concurrently, leaf production and culm elongation are visibly enhanced, while flowering occurs less frequently but with more prolific bloom periods. Variations in growth speed in other seasons are lesser but not absent, manifesting as slower development in cooler months. These summer-centric growth dynamics are a horticulturally interesting aspect of bitter panicgrass.

Distribution of Bitter panicgrass

Distribution Map

Bitter panicgrass is a grass species with a native range spanning parts of the North American continent, primarily associated with coastal regions. The plant has been introduced and cultivated beyond its original area, adapting to various regional climates and landscapes. Its extended distribution remains concentrated in coastal zones, where its hardiness is valued.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal areas, generally on shifting foredunes, occasionally in swales

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Bitter panicgrass

Erect clumps up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall distinguish bitter panicgrass's growth pattern.

Tufts of feathery flower spikes with tiny seeds provide visual interest.

Delicate, small flowers in clusters with a greenish hue bloom from July to November.

Caryopsis fruit ellipsoidal, 0.08-0.12 inches (2-3 mm), ripe tan to brown.

Smooth textured fruit with hardened outer coating aids in dispersal for late maturity.

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Care Guide for Bitter panicgrass

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bitter panicgrass thrives in coastal dunes and sandy soils, exhibits drought tolerance and requires watering twice a week. It prefers well-drained environments, avoiding waterlogged conditions. Bitter panicgrass's growth is synchronized with seasonal rains, optimizing water uptake during wet periods while conserving moisture during dry spells.

Fertilize: Fertilize bitter panicgrass sparingly with mulch or compost (2-4 inches) annually in early spring. This supports root health and stress tolerance. Avoid excess; bitter panicgrass thrives in lean, sandy soils. Adjust based on local conditions, and use gloves when incorporating fertilizer to maintain ecosystem health.

Pruning: Bitter panicgrass is a hardy perennial grass that thrives in sandy soils and stabilizes erosion with its strong roots. Prune in early spring by cutting back to 6-12 inches to enhance growth, improve air circulation, reduce disease risk, and maintain health, but avoid excessive cutting.

Propagation: Bitter panicgrass is a resilient perennial ideal for coastal areas. It propagates from seeds and thrives in well-draining soil with adequate spacing. Consistent moisture is key, avoiding overwatering. Once established, bitter panicgrass requires minimal care and can tolerate diverse conditions, including salt spray and sandy soils.

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