Dallisgrass
paspalum dilatatum
Also known as: ["Dallis grass","Dallis weed"]
Overview
A perennial grass species native to South America, known for its aggressive growth and spreading habit.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Paspalum |
| Botanical Name: | Paspalum dilatatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: lawn, pasture, or open garden area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering if present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance for partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun to prevent scorching; in hot regions, provide afternoon shade; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth in intense sun; rotate plants for even exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates heat but may go dormant in extreme cold.
Protect from frost; water early to avoid heat stress; adjust care for seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Apply fertilizer evenly; water after fertilizing to activate nutrients; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stolons or seeds; stolons are the most common and reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stolons or seeds.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant stolons horizontally or seeds shallowly.
- Maintain moisture and warmth.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid, and partially shaded conditions.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or sand for stolons; standard seed-starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Not typically required for stolons; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Stolons root in 2–4 weeks; seeds germinate in 2–3 weeks and establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting tray, misting bottle, labels.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, vigorous stolons; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim with clean cuts just above healthy growth nodes; remove dead stolons or runners.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain vigor.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged parts; trim to encourage new growth; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Apply water directly to the soil at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution to a depth of 6–8 inches, and water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning leaves in cold; wilting or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf discoloration or dormancy; prolonged cold may damage roots.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; avoid watering frozen soil; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, browning leaf edges, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct rate; water after application; monitor plant response.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring and early summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPaspalum dilatatum is not considered toxic to cats. It is a grass species that does not pose health risks to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPaspalum dilatatum is not considered toxic to dogs. It is a common grass species that poses no significant health risks to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPaspalum dilatatum, commonly known as dallisgrass, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is a perennial grass often used in pastures and lawns.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dallisgrass invasive?
A: Yes, Dallisgrass is considered invasive in many regions due to its aggressive spreading habit.
Q: Can Dallisgrass be used for forage?
A: While it can be grazed by livestock, it is often considered a weed in pastures due to its competitiveness.
Q: How do I control Dallisgrass in my lawn?
A: Control methods include manual removal, herbicides, or overseeding with desirable grass species.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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