Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Poaceae

Genus:

Aristida

Species:

Aristida stricta

USDA Symbol:

ARST5

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

100 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun,Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

aug,sep,oct

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:

★★★★☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Fire Ecology:

Requires fire for germination

Fire Notes:

Requires periodic fire (every 2-4 years) to maintain vigor and suppress woody encroachment; flowering and seed production are stimulated by fire.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

Common in pine flatwoods and sandhills

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

None required

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds germinate readily without pretreatment when sown on moist, well-drained sandy soil in full sun.