Long-leaf crabgrass (Digitaria longiflora)
Care, watering, light and tips for Long-leaf crabgrass on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Poaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Long-leaf crabgrass
Digitaria longiflora, commonly known as Indian crabgrass, is a low-growing annual grass with a creeping habit, forming dense mats. Its leaves are narrow and pale green, and it produces slender, spiky inflorescences. While often considered a weed in lawns, its resilience and ground-covering ability make it interesting for low-maintenance revegetation projects in warm areas.
Native range
Tropical and subtropical Asia, and Australia
Care tips
This species thrives in full sun exposure and well-drained soils, although it is quite tolerant of various soil conditions. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, as it tolerates drought well once established. Avoid excessive moisture, which can lead to fungal diseases. A common mistake is attempting to grow it in dense shade, where its growth will be weak.
How to save a dying Long-leaf crabgrass
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or reddish leaves, dry and brittle stems, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Remove weeds, aerate soil, water deeply if dry. Consider specific herbicide if invasive.
- What kills it
- Uncontrolled spread; competing with other plants for resources.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if acted upon quickly to control growth and improve soil.