Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Poaceae

Genus:

Aristida

Species:

Aristida desmantha

USDA Symbol:

ARDE3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Annual

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

60 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

aug,sep,oct

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Typical of desert grassland species, tolerates periodic fire and resprouts from crown. Fire helps control woody encroachment in native habitat.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

5.0 - 7.5 (acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to arid and semi-arid regions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

None required

Germination Time:

7–21 days

Notes:

Seeds germinate readily with adequate moisture and warmth. Best sown in spring after last frost.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI