Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Poaceae

Genus:

Cenchrus

Species:

Cenchrus tribuloides

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Annual

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

3-4 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

jun, jul, aug, sep, oct, nov

Native Range

United States: Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, Vermont

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, nutrient-poor, well-drained soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

commonly found in coastal dunes and sandy areas