Black Spear Grass
Heteropogon contortus

Black Spear Grass

Black Spear Grass (Heteropogon contortus) grows up to 4 ft, thrives in well-drained soil, full sun, moderate moisture, and is not edible and not medicinal.


Picture illustrating Black Spear Grass

Habit

Grass

Height

30-60 cm

Growth

Moderate

Soil

Moist, well-drained

Shade

Full Sun

Moisture

Moderate

Edible

No

Medicinal

No

Origin

Asia

Climatic Condition

Tropical, Subtropical

Temperature (°)

25-35°C

Humidity (%)

50-80%

Potting media

Loam + Organic matter

Fertilizers

Low nitrogen fertilizers

Watering

Regular watering

Plant Weight 

50-100 g

Flowering Time

Summer

Soil Ph level

5.5-6.5

Water Ph level

6.0-6.5

Soil EC

1.0 dS/m

Yield Per Plant 

Low yield

NPK ratio 

10:05:05

life Span

1-2 years

Health Benefits

Ground cover, erosion control

Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?

50% compost, 25% peat moss, 25% sand


Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers

Fertilize every 6 weeks with balanced fertilizer.

Common Diseases and Remedies

Leaf Spot, Anthracnose, Root Rot, Leaf Blight. 

Yellowing and wilting of leaves, Yellow to brown spots on leaves, stunted growth.  

Crop rotation, neem cake as soil amendment, Spray Neem Oil, Use Resistant Varieties. 

Fungicide with Propicanazole , Copper based Fungicides. 

                  HEALTH BENEFITS

·  Used in traditional medicine for wound healing and fever reduction.

·  Some studies suggest anti-inflammatory benefits.

Strongbark
Bourreria Spp.