Slender Spike-rush
parapholis filiformis
Also known as: ["Slender Spike-rush","Slender Spikegrass"]
Overview
A slender, grass-like plant with fine, linear leaves and small spikelets, typically found in coastal habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Parapholis |
| Botanical Name: | Parapholis filiformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: coastal meadows or sandy, open areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
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 in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in intense summer sun; avoid direct indoor light if acclimating outdoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus mix as base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinching back tips for bushiness; cutting back stems to a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may enter dormancy; prolonged cold can cause root rot or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicParapholis filiformis is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicParapholis filiformis is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicParapholis filiformis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Parapholis filiformis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where is this plant typically found?
A: It is commonly found in coastal habitats and sandy soils.
Q: Does this plant require much maintenance?
A: No, it has low maintenance needs and is relatively easy to care for.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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