Southern crabgrass, tropical crabgrass, hairy crabgrass, summer grass
Digitaria ciliaris
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
While not typically cultivated, Southern crabgrass grains can be harvested and eaten, though it is labor-intensive. The plant provides ground cover, reducing soil erosion, and can be used as a green manure. It can also serve as livestock fodder, particularly for grazing animals.
Permapeople description
Southern crabgrass (Digitaria ciliaris) is a summer annual grass that is common in lawns, gardens, and disturbed areas. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The plant has a spreading growth habit and can form dense mats. The stems are flattened and often reddish in color. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a rough texture. The plant produces seed heads that are composed of several slender spikes. Southern crabgrass is considered a weed because it can compete with desirable plants for resources. It is also difficult to control because it produces a large number of seeds that can remain viable in the soil for several years.
Botanical description
Digitaria ciliaris is an annual grass species characterized by its prostrate or ascending stems that can reach up to 80 cm in length. The leaves are typically linear, measuring 5-20 cm long and 3-10 mm wide, with pubescent sheaths. The inflorescence consists of 2-9 racemes, each 4-12 cm long, arranged in a digitate manner at the apex of the stem. Spikelets are oblong-elliptic, approximately 2-3 mm long, and occur in pairs along one side of the rachis. The plant favors moist, disturbed habitats and warm temperatures.
Companion planting
Southern crabgrass is generally considered a weed and can compete with cultivated plants for resources. It can suppress the growth of desired plants. Therefore, companion planting is usually not considered beneficial. However, it may be incorporated into a green manure or cover crop rotation to suppress other weeds. Its presence can also indicate nutrient imbalances in the soil.
Propagation methods
Southern crabgrass primarily propagates through seeds. These seeds germinate readily in warm soil conditions. Control measures typically involve preventing seed production and dispersal. Sowing is not generally done intentionally except for research purposes.
History and traditions
Southern crabgrass is a widespread weed, originating from tropical and subtropical regions. Historically, it has been viewed primarily as an agricultural pest, although in some cultures, the seeds have been consumed in times of food scarcity. There's limited documentation of extensive traditional uses beyond opportunistic consumption.
Usage calendar
Germination typically occurs in late spring and summer when soil temperatures are warm. Flowering and seed production occur throughout the summer and fall until frost. Harvesting, if desired, would also take place during the summer and fall. Planting is not applicable as it is generally considered a weed.