Goosegrass (Eleusine indica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Goosegrass on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Poaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Goosegrass
Eleusine indica, commonly known as goosegrass or yard-grass, is an annual grass belonging to the Poaceae family, native to tropical Asia. It is characterized by its prostrate or ascending stems and digitate spikelets resembling a bird's foot. Although often considered a weed in gardens and crops, its resilience and adaptability make it valuable for erosion control in degraded soils.
Native range
Tropical Africa and Asia
Care tips
This species thrives in full sun, though it tolerates partial shade. It is highly adaptable to various soil types, preferring well-drained ones, but can grow in poor and compacted soils. Its drought resistance means that watering should be minimal once established, avoiding waterlogging. A common mistake is attempting to eradicate it with non-specific herbicides, which can harm other desired plants.
How to save a dying Goosegrass
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowed or brown leaves, stunted growth, dry seed heads.
- First aid
- Ensure it's not competing with other plants. If drought-stressed, water deeply.
- What kills it
- Mistaking it for a weed and removing it without identifying the cause of its decline.
- Can it be saved?
- Generally yes, it's a tough plant. Identify the stress and correct it quickly.