Eragrostis curvula aka African Love Grass

Taxonomy

Eragrostis curvula, commonly known as weeping lovegrass, is a deciduous grass native to southern Africa. It forms dense clumps of arching, inrolled leaves that start off dark green and mature into a deep red color. During the summer, it produces sprays of tiny green to beige flowers above its foliage. This species has various other common names including Boer lovegrass, curved lovegrass, Catalina lovegrass, and African lovegrass. Although it is native to southern Africa, it has been introduced to other continents. As a houseplant, weeping lovegrass requires regular watering and thrives in long-lasting, direct light, preferably within one foot of a window. It prefers well-draining soil and does not typically require additional fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. Belonging to the Eragrostis genus, this rare plant adds beauty and elegance with its stunning foliage.

Common names

African Love Grass, Boer Love Grass, Weeping Love Grass

How to care for African Love Grass

Water

African Love Grass should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

African Love Grass loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

African Love Grass thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Weeping Love Grass.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of African Love Grass is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

The African Love Grass is a clumping species, with new growth arising from the soil surrounding the parent plant.

Region of origin

African Love Grass’s native range is S. Africa - north to Zimbabwe and the Transvaal.


More info:
Wikipedia