Arkansas crabgrass (Digitaria stricta)
Care, watering, light and tips for Arkansas crabgrass on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Poaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Arkansas crabgrass
Digitaria stricta, commonly known as crabgrass, is a fast-growing annual grass with a prostrate or ascending growth habit. It is characterized by its stems that spread radially from a central base and broad, flattened leaves. While often considered a weed in cultivated lawns, it can be useful for erosion control in disturbed soils or as forage in certain regions.
Native range
Tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Africa
Care tips
For its management, it prefers full sun and well-drained soils, although it is tolerant of a wide range of conditions. Watering should be moderate, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as excessive moisture can encourage its spread. A common mistake is to try to eradicate it solely by mowing, which often stimulates it to produce more seeds; prevention and early control are key.
How to save a dying Arkansas crabgrass
- Warning signs
- Wilting, yellowing or browning leaves, stunted growth. Often due to lack of moisture or nutrients.
- First aid
- Water deeply. If potted, repot into richer soil. Protect from intense direct sun.
- What kills it
- Prolonged drought or very poor, compact soil. It tolerates constant moisture but not waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it's quite resilient. With proper watering and nutrients, it usually recovers well if not irreversibly damaged.