Poaceae
Urochloa trichopus
Bushveld signal grass
G
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This is an annual or perennial grass, growing up to 1.7 metres tall and forming clumps or spreading by stolons. It features broadly linear to lanceolate leaves and an inflorescence of 3-20 racemes bearing ovate spikelets. Each spikelet, 2.5-5.5 mm long, often has a lower glume with a tuft of hairs and a rugulose upper lemma.
Where it works in Kilifi
Thriving in full sun and well-drained, moist soils, this grass is excellent for ground cover, erosion control, or as forage in Kilifi's semi-arid, tropical conditions. It tolerates disturbed sites, making it suitable for landscape restoration.
Growing notes
A fast-growing species, it establishes readily from seed, cuttings, or division. Once established, it is highly drought and heat tolerant, though not suited for cold temperatures. It is known to be a weed of cultivation in some areas.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: kew.org, wikipedia.org, zimbabweflora.co.zw, selinawamucii.com, malawiflora.com, jstor.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.