Hairy crabgrass, crabgrass, large crabgrass, purple crabgrass.
Digitaria sanguinalis
🌿 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 generally considered a weed, the seeds are edible and can be used as a grain source, especially in times of scarcity. The plant can also be used as animal fodder. It's not typically cultivated in permaculture systems but can be managed as a ground cover and then harvested or fed to livestock. Some studies show allelopathic properties that might have utility in weed suppression, but this is still under research.
Permapeople description
Hairy crabgrass is an annual weed grass with sprawling stems and finger-like seedheads, commonly found in lawns and gardens.
Botanical description
Digitaria sanguinalis is an annual grass species. Its stems (culms) are decumbent or ascending, often branching from the base, and can reach heights of 20 to 80 centimeters (8 to 31 inches). The leaves are typically 5 to 20 centimeters (2 to 8 inches) long and 4 to 10 millimeters (0.16 to 0.39 inches) wide. The inflorescence consists of 2 to 9 slender, radiating spikes (racemes), 5 to 15 centimeters (2 to 6 inches) long. The spikelets are elliptic-lanceolate, 2.5 to 3.5 millimeters (0.1 to 0.14 inches) long, and occur in pairs along one side of the rachis. The plant is characterized by hairy sheaths and ligules, giving it a 'hairy' appearance. The roots are shallow and fibrous. It is a warm-season grass, actively growing during the summer months.
Companion planting
Generally considered an undesirable weed in most cropping systems. Its presence can reduce crop yields due to competition for resources like water, nutrients, and sunlight. There are no known beneficial companion plants for crabgrass. Instead, control measures like mulching, cover cropping, and proper soil management are employed to minimize its impact on cultivated crops. Due to potential allelopathic effects, further research is needed to properly understand possible companion relationships.
Propagation methods
Primarily through seeds. Crabgrass is a prolific seeder, and seeds can remain viable in the soil for several years. It is easily spread by birds, wind, water, and human activity. Propagation can also occur vegetatively via rooting at the nodes.
History and traditions
Historically, Digitaria sanguinalis has been primarily regarded as a weed in agricultural fields. However, in some cultures, particularly in Africa and Asia, the seeds have been consumed as a famine food or as a component of traditional diets. The plant has also been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, though scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited.
Usage calendar
Germination occurs in spring when soil temperatures reach 55-60°F (13-16°C). Flowering and seed production occur throughout the summer and early fall. The plant dies off with the first frost. Seeds are typically harvested in late summer or early fall. No planting or pruning is applicable.