Para grass (Urochloa mutica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Para grass on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Poaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Para grass
Urochloa mutica, commonly known as "Para grass," is a vigorous and fast-growing perennial grass native to Africa. It features robust stems and broad, bright green leaves that can grow upright or prostrate, forming dense mats. It is ideal for covering large areas in warm climates, especially in humid zones or as fodder, and is also used for erosion control on riverbanks and marshy areas.
Native range
Tropical and subtropical Africa, and parts of Asia
Care tips
This grass prefers full sun for optimal growth, although it tolerates some partial shade. It requires consistent and abundant watering, especially in well-drained soils, as it thrives in moist and even waterlogged conditions. It adapts to a wide range of soils but prefers fertile, clayey ones. A common mistake is underestimating its vigor and invasive potential, so it's crucial to monitor its spread in unwanted environments.
How to save a dying Para grass
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilted leaves, stunted or slow growth, soft stems.
- First aid
- Check watering (likely underwatered), ensure good drainage, place in a sunny, humid spot.
- What kills it
- Prolonged drought, intense cold, or constant waterlogging that rots the roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted and conditions are corrected quickly.