Streambed bristlegrass (Setaria leucopila)

Streambed bristlegrass

Also known as: Plains bristlegrass

Streambed bristlegrass (Setaria leucopila), also known as plains bristlegrass, grows across high-elevation prairies of the western United States. It's commonly found in clumps out of which some stalks may reach 2 m in height. Streambed bristlegrass is considered good forage for livestock.

Scientific classification

Species

Streambed bristlegrass (Setaria leucopila)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Grass

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

10 cm to 99 cm

Plant Height

1 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Size

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Streambed bristlegrass

Distribution of Streambed bristlegrass

Distribution Map

Streambed bristlegrass is a grass native to the subtropical regions of North America. It has extended its range, whether through natural dispersal or human introduction, to various other parts of the continent. Streambed bristlegrass thrives in a variety of habitats within these broad regions, albeit its presence outside its native range remains relatively limited compared to other species with more aggressive colonization patterns.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry rangelands at elevations of 3,000 to 7,000 feet (Gay and Dwyer, 1980)

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Streambed bristlegrass

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, streambed bristlegrass is drought-tolerant and requires weekly watering to avoid over-saturation. Best suited for outdoor cultivation, it thrives in well-draining soil, reflecting its natural habitat's characteristics and benefiting from natural rainfall patterns.

Fertilize: For streambed bristlegrass, use mulch or compost biannually in spring and fall to improve soil fertility and support growth. Apply a 5 cm (2 in) layer around the base, avoiding the stem. Over-fertilization may harm roots. Novices should wear gloves, while experienced gardeners can propagate nutrients through layering.

Pruning: Streambed bristlegrass, with bristle-like inflorescences, thrives in arid conditions and benefits from annual pruning in early spring. Cut back old stalks to promote healthy growth and denser foliage, while removing spent flowers to prevent seeding. Use sterilized tools for clean cuts and disease prevention.

Propagation: A resilient perennial, streambed bristlegrass can be multiplied through division. Cultivators should separate root systems, ensuring ample roots and shoots, and water regularly to promote establishment. As a clump-forming grass, streambed bristlegrass supports novice gardeners in expanding their landscapes effectively.

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