Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Poaceae

Genus:

Piptochaetium

Species:

Piptochaetium avenaceum

USDA Symbol:

PIAV

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

120 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun

Bloom Colors:

green, purple

Lawn Substitute:

Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fall Color:

tan, brown

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Tolerates fire; resprouts from basal crown after low-intensity burns.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

prefers open, sunny areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds germinate readily after cold stratification; sow in fall or stratify for 30-60 days.