Spiny Paspalum
cenchrus longispinus
Also known as: ["Spiny Paspalum","Long-spined Paspalum"]
Overview
A grass species native to North America, known for its spiny inflorescences.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Cenchrus |
| Botanical Name: | Cenchrus longispinus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: open meadows, pastures, or as a ground cover in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead material.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near reflective surfaces.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to soil pH.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, warm temperatures (70–75°F/21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape as desired, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, 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 root zone, ensure even moisture penetration, allow excess water to drain completely, 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 perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Growth cessation, leaf damage, potential death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, provide frost protection, reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced vigor, or flower drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCenchrus longispinus is not known to have toxic effects on cats. It is generally considered safe for feline contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicCenchrus longispinus is not known to have toxic effects on dogs. It is generally considered safe for canine contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicCenchrus longispinus is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cenchrus longispinus toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does this plant grow?
A: It is a grass species that spreads via rhizomes and seeds, thriving in open, disturbed areas.
Q: Is it suitable for lawns?
A: It is not typically recommended for lawns due to its weedy nature and spiny inflorescences.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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