Basketgrass, scientifically known as Oplismenus hirtellus, is a low perennial grass species native to tropical and subtropical regions, including Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The leaves are narrow with a hairy texture, typically green but sometimes reddish or purplish. This plant spreads by creeping stems that root at the nodes. The fruits are small and not ornamentally significant. Basketgrass is often used as groundcover in shade since it tolerates low light. It is relatively easy to grow in various soils, although it prefers moist conditions. However, it can become invasive by spreading rapidly and outcompeting native plants. Therefore, growth management is important to prevent ecological disruption. The plant requires tropical climates and shade habitats. It spreads fast by stolons and can overwhelm local flora. Careful maintenance helps limit invasive spread. The species is versatile and thrives across diverse edaphic conditions. Stems produce roots at nodes for clonal reproduction. Leaf shape is lanceolate with hairy texture. Coloration varies between green, red and purple hues. Inflorescences lack showy blossoms and have tiny fruits. Taxonomically, it belongs within the grass family Poaceae.
Basketgrass
- Scientific name
- Oplismenus hirtellus
Basic Information
- Poaceae Family Oplismenus Genus Basketgrass Species
- Poaceae > Oplismenus > Oplismenus hirtellus
- 83%
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- Forb/herb
- Graminoid
- Height
- 30cm ~
- Flower Color
- Leaf Color
- Anthesis
- summer, fall
- Sunlight Exposure
Full Sun Long hours of sunlight from morning to afternoon Partial Shade A location in the shade of a tree or where either the morning or afternoon is shaded Full Shade A place where there is no direct sunlight
- Partial Shade
- Hardiness Zones
This is an indicator to know to which zone each plant can winter. Knowing the zone of each plant gives you an idea of the cold temperature resistance when grown in the ground without a roof. 2: -42.7 to -40.0 3: -39.9 to -34.4 4: -34.3 to -28.9 5: -28.8 to -23.3 6: -23.2 to -17.8 7: -17.7 to -12.2 8: -12.1 to -6.7 9: -6.6 to -1.1 10: -1.0 to 4.4 11: 4.5 to 10.0
- 10
- Cold resistance
- Fair
- Heat resistance
- Good
- Habitat of origin
- Japan
- Growth Rate
- Normal
What is Basketgrass (Oplismenus hirtellus)?
What is Basketgrass (Oplismenus hirtellus)
Flower meaning
Basketgrass does not have a flower language. Basketgrass is also called Oplismenus hirtellus. A symbolic way to talk through flowers is called flower language. Certain flowers and plants have certain meanings. However, Basketgrass does not really have a flower language in America. Flower language can be different in various cultures and times. Not all plants have special meanings.
Calendar of Basketgrass (Oplismenus hirtellus)
Calendar
Basketgrass, also known as Oplismenus hirtellus, is a plant species that is native to the southeastern United States. The attractive foliage makes Basketgrass popular among people who grow plants. The flowers of Basketgrass are at their best during May and June. To make the flowers last longer, it is suggested to give the plant enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. Also, regular cutting and removing dead flowers can help the blooming continue. Overall, Basketgrass is an easy to care for plant that can add beauty. Basketgrass flowers are small and not showy. It is a grass that typically blooms in late spring or early summer. The blooming time of Basketgrass usually lasts for a few weeks.
How to grow Basketgrass (Oplismenus hirtellus)
Watering
Basketgrass, scientifically known as Oplismenus hirtellus, requires regular watering to thrive. The species needs frequent irrigation every three to four days from spring until autumn when the plant is actively growing. Avoid soaking the soil constantly as overwatering encourages diseases. During winter dormancy, water less often - about once per week to ten days. Check the soil moisture routinely and water deeply enough to saturate the top two to three inches of soil. Proper moisture levels are vital for the health of this grass.
Soil and Fertilizer
Basketgrass, scientifically referring to Oplismenus hirtellus, endures in a bunch of ground positions. It favors well-run ground with a pH area of 5.5 to 7.5. The floor ought have good humidity retention aptitudes. Basketgrass can bear both sandy and clay floors, but it develops most outstanding in loamy floor. To guarantee ideal increment, it is suggested to apply an adjusted fertilizer with an extent of 10-10-10 or 14-14-14. The manure ought be connected during the developing season, which is typically spring and summer. The sum of fertilizer to be connected relies upon the floor quality and the particular supplement necessities of the plant. It is fitting to take after the producer's guidelines for the suggested measurement. By and large, a moderate use of manure like clockwork during the developing season is adequate to advance sound development. Normal floor testing is suggested to screen the supplement levels and pH of the ground. This will assist decide if any changes or extra preparation is required. It is essential to note overabundance manure use can prompt supplement lopsided characteristics and natural contamination, so it is fundamental to apply manures carefully as per the plant's necessities.
Sunlight and Place
Basketgrass, knows as scientifically Oplismenus hirtellus, needs partial or complete shade for best growing. It does not like direct light of sun and can get leaf burns if in strong light of sun for long time. For temperature, Basketgrass can take cold to around 20°F (-6°C). But, it does not like hot and dry very much. Best temperature for Basketgrass is 60°F (15°C) to 75°F (24°C). Need to give enough wetness and humidity, specially in summer months. In winter, can keep Basketgrass inside in cool place without direct light. Important to avoid air vents or heaters, as this can stress the plant. For light strength, Basketgrass likes low to medium light. It can take some morning or night direct sun, but long strong sun should be avoided. In summary, Basketgrass grows best in shade, can take some cold, likes temperatures between 60°F and 75°F, and needs low to medium light. Can keep inside over winter in cool place without direct light.
Advanced Information of Basketgrass (Oplismenus hirtellus)
Pruning
Basketgrass, scientifically known as Oplismenus hirtellus, needs regular cutting and trimming. Trimming keeps the right shape, helps growth, and stops overgrowing. It also takes away dead or hurt leaves, making it look better. The best time to trim Basketgrass is early spring or late winter before new growth starts. Then the plant is resting so it won't get as stressed or hurt. Use clean, sharp pruners to make clean cuts when trimming. After trimming, take away any fallen debris or leaves from the base. This helps stop diseases and pests spreading. Also giving the plant proper care like water and fertilizer will help it recover and grow new. Always wear gloves handling Basketgrass since some people get skin irritation or allergies from it. Be careful when trimming to not damage the plant or stress it too much.
Planting and Harvest
Basketgrass, also known as Oplismenus hirtellus, is a plant that can be potted or planted in the ground. When potting any plant, it is important to choose a container with good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Fill the pot with a well-draining potting mix, leaving enough space for the plant's roots. Gently remove the plant from its nursery container, being careful not to damage the roots. Place the plant in the pot and fill in the remaining space with potting mix, packing it gently around the roots. Water the plant thoroughly after potting and place it in a location with indirect sunlight. If repotting is a requirement, choose a slightly larger pot and follow the same steps as potting. Repotting should be done when the plant has outgrown its current container or when the soil becomes compacted. Inaccurate care can lead to the impairment of any plant. It is important to provide the plant with enough water, but avoid overwatering as it can cause problems. A humid environment is preferred, so misting the leaves occasionally can be helpful. Fertilizer every few months with a balanced fertilizer. Pruning can remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Any plant can thrive both in pots and in the ground, as long as it gets the proper care and growing conditions.
Propagation
Basketgrass can be divided to make more small plants, or grown from seeds, pieces of leaves, or stem cuttings. To grow new plants from seeds, get ripe seeds from an older basketgrass plant. Put the seeds in some potting soil in a pot with drainage holes. Keep the soil a little wet and give some indirect sunlight until new plants start growing. To divide basketgrass, carefully split up the plant into smaller pieces, making sure each piece has some roots. Put each piece in its own pot with well-draining soil and water regularly. To propagate from cuttings, cut off a stem piece from the plant. Take off any lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting powder and plant it in moist soil in a pot. Keep the soil moist and give indirect light. Pieces of leaves can also make new plants. Put a healthy leaf in moist soil in a pot, with the base of the leaf buried. Keep the soil moist and give indirect sunlight.
Pests and Diseases
Basketgrass, a plant commonly known as Oplismenus hirtellus, is susceptible to various pests and diseases. The mealybug is a common pest for this plant. Mealybugs are small insects feeding on the plant sap, causing poor growth and yellowed leaves. To prevent problems, regularly check the plant and use insecticidal soap if found. Another pest can be the spider mite, tiny creatures feeding on sap and making leaves yellow and wilt. To help avoid, keep good moisture and spray the plant often. This grass can also get fungal diseases like leaf spot and powdery mildew. Leaf spot makes dark leaf spots leading to leaf drop. Powdery mildew looks like white powder on leaves. For prevention, allow good air flow, avoid overhead watering and remove any diseased leaves. Basketgrass can wither from incorrect watering, too hot or cold temperatures. It's important to water properly and give adequate sunlight to stop withering. In summary, Basketgrass can be affected by pests like mealybugs and spider mites, and fungal problems such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. Checking often, right watering, and a good environment helps avoid issues for plant health.
Habitat of Basketgrass (Oplismenus hirtellus)
Habitat
Toxicity of Basketgrass (Oplismenus hirtellus)
Health Benefits
- edible
- Inedible
- Toxic
- No toxicity
NO DATA
Toxic for dogs and cats
NO DATA
Q&A of Basketgrass (Oplismenus hirtellus)
- Is there a recommended way to choose Basketgrass?
Basketgrass, scientifically known as Oplismenus hirtellus, is a popular ornamental plant that can be grown from seeds or seedlings. When selecting plants of Basketgrass, it is important to consider the specific qualities and growth patterns of each plant. One plant of Basketgrass is the 'Variegatus' plant, which has green leaves with white lines. This plant provides a touch of style and visual interest to any area. Another plant is the 'Green' plant, which has solid green leaves. This plant is more subtle in look but still gives a lush and vibrant appearance. When selecting seeds or seedlings of Basketgrass, it is suggested to look for healthy and strong plants. Inspect for any indications of illness or insect damage, like yellowing leaves or drooping. Also, consider the size and age of the seedlings. Younger seedlings may establish more easily in the area, while larger seedlings may give a more immediate impact. Overall, selecting the correct plant and healthy seeds or seedlings of Basketgrass will ensure a successful and visually pleasing addition to any area.
- Is Basketgrass a Good Choice for Lawns?
Basketgrass, scientifically known as Oplismenus hirtellus, can be a good choice for lawns in certain conditions. In some areas, this plant grows well and spreads to make a thick mat on the ground. This helps stop dirt from washing away. But it might not grow in sunny lawns since it likes shade. Also, it can spread too much if you don't control it. You need to keep taking care of it.
- Is Basketgrass Considered a Weed?
Yes, Basketgrass, scientifically known as Oplismenus hirtellus, is considered a weed. This plant requires stolen gained resources to compete with wanted members in lawns. Its power to extend makes it an annoyance for many.
- What Are the Characteristics of Wavy Leaf Basketgrass?
Wavy Leaf Basketgrass. Basketgrass, scientifically known as Oplismenus hirtellus, If you know is a perennial grass species characterized by its distinctive wavy leaves. These leaves are typically green, but also can exhibit a purplish hue. Pest and disease along the margins. The plant is known for its creeping growth habit, often forming dense mats on the forest floor. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are typically hidden among the leaves.