Cenchrus echinatus aka Mossman River Grass

Taxonomy

Genus Cenchrus Family Poaceae Order Poales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Cenchrus echinatus, also known as southern sandbur, spiny sandbur, southern sandspur, and Mossman River grass in Australia, is a clump-forming annual grass native to North and South America. It can grow up to 80 cm tall and has leaves that may or may not have hairs and measure up to 12 mm wide. The ligule is a fringe of hairs and the grass produces barbed burrs that are 4-10 mm long. In Australia, it is considered an invasive weed in coastal areas. However, in some regions, such as in households, Southern Sandbur is a rare houseplant that requires regular watering and direct light, less than 1 foot away from a window. It prefers soil that retains moisture and does not require added fertilizers if repotted every time it doubles in size.

Common names

Mossman River Grass, Bur Grass, Innocent Weed, Spiny Sandbur, Southern Sandbur

How to care for Mossman River Grass

Difficulty

Mossman River Grass requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Mossman River Grass should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

When growing Mossman River Grass, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Mossman River Grass with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Mossman River Grass from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Southern Sandbur regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Mossman River Grass will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Mossman River Grass prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Mossman River Grass should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

The Mossman River Grass is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Cenchrus Genus

Cenchrus biflorus India Sandbur

Cenchrus cupreus Cenchrus X Cupreus

Cenchrus spinifex Field Sandbur

Cenchrus alopecuroides Fountain Grass

Cenchrus americanus Pearl Millet

Cenchrus longispinus Dune Sandbur

Cenchrus Fountaingrass

Cenchrus purpureus Elephant Grass

Cenchrus longisetus Feathertop

Cenchrus clandestinus Kikuyu Grass