Sixweeks grass
aristida adscensionis
Also known as: ["Wiregrass","Three-awn grass"]
Overview
A tufted annual grass with wiry stems and delicate, three-awned spikelets, native to Europe and naturalized in many regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Aristida |
| Botanical Name: | Aristida adscensionis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: open, sunny areas in gardens or meadows
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; tolerates poor soils but hates waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Sandy, loamy soil with good aeration and low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy. Adjust exposure gradually if moving from shade to sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to intense sunlight gradually over 1–2 weeks to prevent scorching. For indoor plants, place near 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 to filter intense midday sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty mixes; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot conditions (20–35°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid placing near drafty windows in winter; shield from intense afternoon sun in summer; maintain stable temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula for grasses.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division. Seeds germinate readily under warm, moist conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep consistently moist.
- Thin seedlings once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), bright indirect light, high humidity (60–70%) for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining seed-starting mix or sandy loam with perlite.
Hormone
Not required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid stem cuttings if used.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–4 weeks; mature plants in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, watering can, heat mat (optional), labels.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in groups; keep consistently warm; do not cover seeds with heavy soil.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or just above a healthy node using clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain appearance and airflow.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil degrades. Overpotting can lead to waterlogging.
Checklist
Check root condition; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate small amounts of compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaf tips in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; roots may become susceptible to rot in cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; apply a protective mulch around the base if outdoors.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch or browning; reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAristida adscensionis is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicAristida adscensionis is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to canines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicAristida adscensionis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aristida adscensionis suitable for lawns?
A: No, it is not typically used for lawns due to its delicate growth habit and annual nature.
Q: How does this grass spread?
A: It spreads via seeds dispersed by wind or animals.
Q: Does it require frequent watering?
A: No, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| 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
