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Mauritanian grass

Scientific Name: Ampelodesmos mauritanicus

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Ampelodesmos mauritanicus - Mauritanian Grass

Ampelodesmos mauritanicus, commonly known as Mauritanian grass, is a striking perennial grass prized for its ornamental value and architectural presence in gardens.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant is a grass, and pets may be inclined to chew or ingest it.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant is a grass and can grow to 3 m (9ft), so children may be tempted to play around or hide in it.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Ampelodesmos mauritanicus (Poir.) T. Dur. &amp Schinz
  • Common Names: Mauritanian grass, stramma, rope grass, diss grass
  • Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae (Plants)
  • Synonyms: Ampelodesmos mauritanica
  • Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the Mediterranean region.
  • Observed in locations like Mauritania and Cala.
  • Adapted to various environments including dunes in the Sahara and grass savannahs.

Morphological Characteristics

  • A perennial grass growing up to 3 meters (9 feet) tall and 1 meter (3 feet 3 inches) wide.
  • Forms dense clumps of linear leaves, which are grey-green above and dark green below.
  • Tussock-forming grass with fine-textured evergreen blades.
  • Produces tall, architectural white seed heads in late summer (September).

Ecological Role

  • Classified as an exotic species in the U.S.

Quirky Facts

  • Historically, it was known as "Mauritanian Vine-Reed" and used to tie up vines.
  • Locusts have been known to consume this grass, even eating it from football stadium pitches.

Cultivation

  • Hardy to zone (UK) 8 and hardiness zones 9-11.
  • Prefers hot, overhead sun.
  • Requires soil that is allowed to dry out between watering or constantly moist.
  • Regular fertilization in the spring is recommended for florid development.

Further Resources

  • USDA PLANTS Database: Symbol AMMA5
  • Discover Life: Information on biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution.
  • Dave's Garden: Community sharing tips and ideas for gardens.