Unknown
ceratochloa cathartica
Also known as: []
Overview
A species of grass in the family Poaceae, native to certain regions.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Ceratochloa |
| Botanical Name: | Ceratochloa cathartica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity drops below 40%
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in summer, dappled shade in intense heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun, protect from harsh midday rays, move indoors during extreme heat or cold.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in dormancy
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C) with protection from extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in soil or water.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply hormone (if used), plant in medium, maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (70–75°F, 21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, trim stems just above a leaf node, remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape as desired, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 for drainage, incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility, use a soil aerator if compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in response to sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced vigor, and potential dehydration in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, use shade cloth outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCeratochloa cathartica can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in cats if ingested. The effects are generally limited to digestive discomfort without severe systemic consequences.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Ceratochloa cathartica by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant does not pose a significant systemic threat but may cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCeratochloa cathartica contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's physiological impact is primarily limited to the digestive system, with no known systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ceratochloa cathartica toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Ceratochloa cathartica be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Ceratochloa cathartica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it can attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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