Vaseygrass
paspalum urvillei
Also known as: ["Vasey's paspalum","Vasey grass"]
Overview
A perennial grass species native to South America, often used as forage or in pasture management.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Paspalum |
| Botanical Name: | Paspalum urvillei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or lawn area with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct sun in extreme heat; provide dappled shade in midday; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Avoid compacted soil; ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 70–85°F (21–29°C); tolerates heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during growing season with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize less in winter; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent burn; apply evenly around the root zone.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Monitor for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag if needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to encourage branching; remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or diseased parts; shape the plant; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refreshment.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the surface; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or organic matter for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or browning; reduced vigor; potential for heat stress in extreme temperatures.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply and more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during active growth.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPaspalum urvillei is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPaspalum urvillei is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPaspalum urvillei is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Paspalum urvillei toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does Vaseygrass grow?
A: It is a fast-growing, perennial grass that spreads via rhizomes and seeds.
Q: Is Vaseygrass suitable for lawns?
A: While it can be used in pastures, it is often considered a weed in cultivated lawns due to its invasive nature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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