Sourgrass (Digitaria insularis)
Care, watering, light and tips for Sourgrass on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Poaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Sourgrass
Digitaria insularis, commonly known as 'Zèb a blé' or sourgrass, is a fast-growing perennial grass native to tropical and subtropical regions. It features lance-shaped leaves and a digitate panicle inflorescence that gives it a feathery appearance. While often considered a weed, its upright habit and resilience make it suitable for revegetation in degraded areas or as ground cover in specific situations.
Native range
Tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas
Care tips
This grass thrives in full sun and tolerates a wide range of soils, though it prefers well-drained and fertile ones. It is very drought-tolerant once established, requiring watering only during extreme dry periods to maintain its vigor. A common mistake is underestimating its spreading capacity, so it's crucial to monitor its growth if you don't want it to invade other areas. It does not require regular fertilization but benefits from soil rich in organic matter.
How to save a dying Sourgrass
- Warning signs
- Yellowish/whitish leaves, stunted growth, weak/prostrate stems, spots or discoloration.
- First aid
- Manual removal, ensure good aeration, avoid excess nitrogen and waterlogging.
- What kills it
- Mistaking it for desirable grass and letting it grow unchecked, or non-selective herbicide application.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if acted upon in time with manual control or specific post-emergent herbicides before it spreads.