Asian crabgrass (Digitaria bicornis)
Also known as: Tropical crabgrass
White clover is a prevalent weed found in lawns and gardens. Besides being a nuisance in these areas, it holds economic value as a forage crop for livestock and serves as a vital food source for various birds and insects.
In This Article
Attributes of Asian crabgrass
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Grass
Plant Height
5 cm to 15 cm
Spread
8 cm to 60 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
0.2 to 0.5 cm
Flower Color
White Green
Images of Asian crabgrass
Quickly Identify Asian crabgrass
1
Low spreading growth habit forming clumped patches.
2
Narrow grass-like leaves with serrated or wavy margins.
3
Inconspicuous wind-pollinated flowers in racemes with bicornuate appearance.
4
Smooth, slender green stem without hairs, branching occasionally.
5
Small achenes enveloped in soft, velvety hairs with winged shape.
Scientific Classification of Asian crabgrass
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Monocotyledons
Order
Poales
Family
Grass
Genus
Crabgrasses
Species
Asian crabgrass
Planting and Growing of Asian crabgrass
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 2 days
Sunlight Requirements
Partial sun
Sunshine Duration
4-6 hours
Ideal Temperature
68-86℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Terracotta, Plastic
How to Water Asian crabgrass?
The watering amount for Digitaria bicornis should be enough to moisten the soil without leaving it waterlogged. Ideally, aim for around 250 ml per watering. This balance ensures that the soil retains enough moisture for the plant's needs while preventing root rot. The soil should feel damp to the touch, but not soggy.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Asian crabgrass?
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What should I do if my Asian crabgrass is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Asian crabgrass?
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How to save an overwatered Asian crabgrass?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Asian crabgrass?
Partial sunlight ensures Digitaria bicornis can perform photosynthesis efficiently while preventing leaf scorch. This balance also promotes lush growth and enhances the plant's natural color and vitality.
How much sunlight?
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What if it's too shady?
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What will ideal light provide?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Asian crabgrass?
For optimal growth, Digitaria bicornis thrives between 68°F and 86°F. This temperature range ensures the plant can efficiently carry out photosynthesis and maintain cellular structure and function. Consistent monitoring is essential to ensure temperatures do not deviate significantly, as this can influence the plant's development and resilience against diseases.
What Soil is Best for Asian crabgrass?
Digitaria bicornis thrives in well-drained soils, ensuring that water does not stagnate around the roots. This prevents root rot, promotes aeration, and allows the plant to access nutrients more effectively, which is vital for its robust growth. Although hardy, Digitaria bicornis benefits from soil enriched with organic matter. Such nutrient-dense conditions support healthy, lush growth and contribute to the plant's overall vigor, ensuring it can withstand environmental stresses. Balanced moisture retention in the soil is ideal for Digitaria bicornis. It ensures that while the soil remains moist enough to support continuous growth, it isn’t overly wet to cause waterlogging, thus fostering optimal plant health and endurance.
How to Fertilize Asian crabgrass?
For Digitaria bicornis, the ideal fertilizer amount depends on its growth stage. During peak growth, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at half the recommended strength. Ensure not to exceed this amount to prevent nutrient burn.
How to Prune Asian crabgrass?
Begin by identifying any dead, damaged, or diseased stems or leaves. Removing these first ensures that the plant's energy is directed towards only healthy, substantial growth. Trim the plant each month to prevent it from spreading too aggressively. Focus on trimming the outer edges to maintain a tidy appearance, cutting back to the crown to encourage dense growth. Shape Digitaria bicornis by systematically trimming around its base to create a defined boundary. This helps control its spread and integrate it aesthetically into your landscape design.
More About Pruning Techniques→
How to Propagate Asian crabgrass plant?
1
Choose a well-drained potting mix for seeds or use garden soil for divisions. Ensure the soil is free of pests and has a neutral pH for optimal plant growth.
2
Sow seeds evenly in prepared trays. Cover lightly with soil, as seeds need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during germination.
3
Carefully lift the plant from the ground, separate the roots using sharp implements, and replant divisions quickly to minimize root exposure to the air.
How to Repot Asian crabgrass plant?
1
Repot your Digitaria bicornis when you notice roots emerging from drainage holes or when growth seems stunted. These signs indicate that the plant has outgrown its current pot and needs more space to thrive.
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Opt for a pot slightly larger than the current one, with adequate drainage holes. A pot that's too large can lead to water retention, while one that's just the right size encourages healthy root development and water absorption.
3
Select a well-draining potting mix composed of equal parts sand, peat, and loam. This blend ensures proper drainage and nutrient provision, essential for Digitaria bicornis's root health and overall vitality.
