Sterile Brome
anisantha sterilis
Also known as: ["Bromus sterilis","Sterile Bromegrass"]
Overview
A grass species of the genus Anisantha, known for its sterile nature and weedy characteristics.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Anisantha |
| Botanical Name: | Anisantha sterilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: open fields, disturbed areas, or as a ground cover in gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during growing season; light pruning as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff occurs, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure bottom drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but prefers warmth.
Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimate benefits; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Recommended (rooting powder or liquid hormone).
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinching back tips, selective cutting of stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth, shape plant, encourage bushier growth; focus on maintaining vigor.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill container; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wet foliage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply (6–8 inches), allow excess to drain completely, water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture levels.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with vermiculite.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage, increases susceptibility to disease.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced vigor, potential flower abortion.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; flush periodically; follow label instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAnisantha sterilis is not considered toxic to cats. Ingestion of seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, but no significant toxic effects are expected.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAnisantha sterilis is not considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion of seeds may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation, but no significant toxic effects are expected.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAnisantha sterilis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to mechanical irritation rather than chemical toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anisantha sterilis toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does this plant spread?
A: It spreads primarily through wind-dispersed seeds.
Q: Is it suitable for ornamental gardens?
A: Generally not, as it is considered a weed.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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