Rigid Foxtail
catapodium rigidum
Also known as: ["Rigid Foxtail Grass","Hard Foxtail"]
Overview
A tufted annual grass with stiff, bristly spikes and narrow leaves, often found in disturbed soils and roadsides.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Catapodium |
| Botanical Name: | Catapodium rigidum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, loamy soil with excellent drainage. Low organic matter preferred.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when stems become untidy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade midday.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, use a south-facing window with unobstructed light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains in peak summer; avoid shaded spots.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize drought tolerance.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; use cactus/succulent mixes.
Temperature
Warm to hot conditions (20–30°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers stable warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing; stop feeding in winter; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most reliable. Stem cuttings can also be attempted but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Or take cuttings, apply hormone (if used), and place in medium.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), bright indirect light, high humidity (for cuttings).
Medium
Well-draining seed-starting mix or cactus mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; optional for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; bottom heat aids rooting; avoid overwatering cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flower stems at the base; remove any dead or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Focus on removing dead or spent flower stems to encourage seed production or tidiness.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead growth; remove spent flowers; avoid cutting healthy stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots if pot-bound; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Generally not required unless grown in containers. Repot every 2–3 years if needed.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during dormancy (late fall to early spring).
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; use gritty mixes for container planting.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature seed set in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat if necessary; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid dormant period.
Fertilizing Method
Minimal fertilization needed. Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer once monthly during active growth (spring/summer).
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCatapodium rigidum is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful physiological effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCatapodium rigidum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCatapodium rigidum is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Catapodium rigidum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does this plant grow?
A: It is an annual grass that spreads via seeds and thrives in disturbed soils.
Q: Is it suitable for gardens?
A: It is typically considered a weed and is not recommended for ornamental gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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