Paspalum distichum
Paspalum distichum · Poaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant paspalum distichum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Moderate (temperate to warm climates)
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical America
- Soil type
- Moist, tolerating excessive moisture
Care
Regular watering
Two-spiked paspalum appreciates moist soils and doesn't fear excess water. Keep the substrate constantly moist, especially during the growing period. Reduce watering slightly in winter if the plant loses vigor, but never let the soil dry out completely.
Generous light
Choose a sunny to partially shaded location for optimal growth. This grass develops well in direct sunlight, where it produces denser foliage. It also tolerates light shade, but good lighting promotes its vitality.
Suitable substrate
Prefer soil rich in organic matter, well-draining but moisture-retaining. A mix including potting soil and peat or compost is ideal. This species tolerates neutral to slightly acidic pH soils and handles moist soils and even marshy areas well.
Cutting and maintenance
Prune regularly to maintain a compact shape and prevent legginess. A spring trim rejuvenates the clump. Remove dead or damaged leaves throughout the seasons to encourage new growth.
Moderate fertilizing
Apply a balanced diluted fertilizer monthly during the growing period (spring-summer). A liquid formula or well-decomposed compost is more than adequate. Reduce feeding in autumn and winter.
Overall robustness
Two-spiked paspalum is a hardy plant, little susceptible to common pests. Stagnant excess moisture can promote root rot: ensure adequate drainage. Regularly inspect the foliage for any signs of problems.
Did you know?
Two-spiked paspalum gets its name from its distinctive small flower spikes made up of two parallel and upright spikes, very recognizable characteristics. This grass, native to tropical America, has naturalized in many wet regions where it plays an important ecological role, particularly in stabilizing riverbanks and providing cover for aquatic wildlife.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Tufted hair grassDeschampsia cespitosa
- Wavy hair-grassAvenella flexuosa
- Purple moor-grassMolinia caerulea
- Reed canary-grassPhalaris arundinacea
- Common quaking grassBriza media
- Creeping soft-grassHolcus mollis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.