Pogonarthria squarrosa — an easy houseplant
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Pogonarthria squarrosa

Pogonarthria Squarrosa

Updated · 1 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Pogonarthria squarrosa, the sickle grass or cross grass, is a species of perennial grass that is native to tropical, East and southern Africa. It is a hard and unpalatable pioneer grass with very low grazing value.

A note from PlantMom

Cross-grass is resistant to disease and is generally not prone to illnesses. The plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs little watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Cross-grass is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not need a great deal of care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Pogonarthria Squarrosa.

Fertilizer

Cross-grass needs extra nutrients to encourage healthy new growth. In spring, adding compost around the base of the plant can effectively supply the nutrients it requires. Fertilizing supports vigorous growth and helps the plant withstand diseases and pests.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Grass
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Pogonarthria
Family
Poaceae
Native Area
Malawi, Lesotho, Angola, Namibia, South Africa, Madagascar, Eritrea, Zambia, Sudan, Nigeria, Kenya, Niger, Uganda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Benin, Burundi, Mozambique, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Eswatini, Botswana
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Cross grass en Herringbone grass en Grass en Sickle-grass en Herring-bone grass
PLATES
Pogonarthria squarrosa habit
PLATE 01 · habit
Pogonarthria squarrosa other
PLATE 02 · other
Pogonarthria squarrosa other
PLATE 03 · other