Red Goosefoot
digitaria ciliaris
Also known as: ["East Indian Crabgrass","Red Goosefoot"]
Overview
A warm-season annual grass native to tropical and subtropical regions, often found in disturbed areas and lawns.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Digitaria |
| Botanical Name: | Digitaria ciliaris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°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 potting mix with added perlite or sand; can tolerate sandy or loamy soils in the ground.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering to rejuvenate growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during extreme w
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions to avoid leaf burn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; provide dappled shade during peak summer hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh potting mix annually.
Temperature
Warm temperatures, ideally 70–85°F (21–29°C); tolerates heat well but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; adjust watering based on heat levels.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common and reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch stem cutting just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep humid and warm until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for added aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic bag or propagator for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent infection; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible to encourage rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of individual stems to shape the plant; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenating soil and providing space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; 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 proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to leaf drop or death.
Solution: Move plants indoors or to a protected area in cold weather; use frost cloth or mulch to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor; may lead to dehydration and nutrient uptake issues.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDigitaria ciliaris is not considered toxic to cats. Ingestion of small quantities of seeds is unlikely to cause significant harm, though large amounts may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDigitaria ciliaris is not considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion of small quantities of seeds is unlikely to cause significant harm, though large amounts may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDigitaria ciliaris, commonly known as hairy crabgrass, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to mechanical irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Digitaria ciliaris toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does this plant spread?
A: It spreads via seeds and stolons, often becoming invasive in lawns.
Q: Can this plant be controlled in lawns?
A: Yes, through regular mowing and herbicide application.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
