Cenchrus caudatus, (or Pennisetum macrourum), commonly known as African feather grass, is a C4 perennial bunch grass native to tropical and southern Africa, extending to the Arabian Peninsula.[1]

Cenchrus caudatus
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Monocots
Clade: Commelinids
Order: Poales
Family: Poaceae
Subfamily: Panicoideae
Genus: Cenchrus
Species:
C. caudatus
Binomial name
Cenchrus caudatus
(Schrad.) Kuntze
Synonyms
  • Pennisetum macrourum
  • Gymnotrix caudata

Description

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Cenchrus caudatus is characterized by its feathery awns and robust growth form. It is a rhizomatous geophyte.[2]

Range

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The species is indigenous to the tropical and southern regions of Africa, with its range extending to the Arabian Peninsula. It has been introduced to other regions, including Austria, California, the Canary Islands, Great Britain, Hawaii, New Zealand (North and South islands), St. Helena, Tasmania, and Texas.[1]

Habitat

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The species prefers open, sunny locations and is tolerant of a variety of soil conditions. It can be found in open grasslands, woodlands, along rivers, and in areas disturbed by human activities, including waste spaces.[3]

References

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  1. ^ a b "Cenchrus caudatus (Schrad.) Kuntze". Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Retrieved 14 May 2024.
  2. ^ "Cenchrus caudatus". www.fernkloof.org.za. Retrieved 15 May 2024.
  3. ^ "WeedScan - African feathergrass (Cenchrus caudatus)". WeedScan. Centre for Invasive Species Solutions. Retrieved 14 May 2024.