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medio bluestem

Scientific Name: Dichanthium annulatum var. papillosum

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Medio Bluestem: A Versatile Warm-Season Grass

Medio Bluestem (Andropogon nodosus and also commonly known as Dichanthium annulatum) is a warm-season perennial bunchgrass introduced from India and first observed in Bee County, Texas, along Medio Creek. It's valued for its forage quality and yields.

Considerations for Pets

  • Medio bluestem hay is mentioned as being suitable for horses, cows, goats, and sheep.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Names:
    • Andropogon nodosus
    • Dichanthium annulatum (Forssk.) Stapf var. papillosum (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) de Wet &amp J.R. Harlan
    • Dichanthium annulatum (Forssk.) Stapf var. papillosum (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Pilg.
  • Common Names: Medio Bluestem, Marvel Grass, Diaz Bluestem, Kleberg Bluestem, Hindi Grass, Ringed Dichanthium, Sheda Grass, Jargu, Angleton Grass, Yellow Bluestem
  • Genus: Dichanthium Willemet
  • Species: Dichanthium annulatum Stapf

Distribution and Habitat

  • Originally introduced from India.
  • Observed in Bee County, Texas.
  • Also found in southern Asia, Africa, Australia, Cuba, Philippines and Qatar.

Ecological Role

  • Part of the "Old World Bluestem" complex of imported warm-season grasses.

Morphological Characteristics & Growth Habits

  • Perennial grass with a tall, erect to spreading growth form.

Usage

  • Used as pasture grass.
  • Used for hay production, suitable for horses, cows, goats, and sheep.
  • Varieties like 'Gordo' and 'Medio' do well in the Victoria area.

Quirky Facts

  • Bluestems generally have lower fertilizer requirements compared to Bermuda grasses.

Further Resources

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database (Steve Hurst photo credit).