Hurricane Grass

(Bothriochloa pertusa)

Hurricane Grass (Bothriochloa pertusa)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 29" - 69"
High Temp. 80°F - 106°F
Low Temp. 40°F - 70°F

Summary

Bothriochloa pertusa, commonly known as Hurricane Grass or Indian Couch Grass, is a perennial grass that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. It has been widely introduced to Australia and is considered invasive in many of its regions. It typically inhabits open grasslands, roadsides, and disturbed areas, often thriving in poor soils. This species is well-adapted to hot climates and is drought-resistant. It forms dense mats through its stoloniferous growth habit, which can be beneficial for soil stabilization but may also lead to invasiveness.

Hurricane Grass is valued for its use as fodder and for grazing livestock due to its ability to spread quickly and form dense ground cover. It is also used for erosion control in some regions. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, thriving in full sun and tolerating a wide range of soil types, though it prefers those that are well-drained. While it is not typically grown for ornamental purposes, its resilience makes it a practical choice for challenging environments. However, its invasive potential should be carefully considered, and it should not be planted where it can spread uncontrollably. It is invasive in New Caledonia and tropical regions, forming dense grass stands that suppress native vegetation.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, inhabiting open grasslands, roadsides, and disturbed areas

Other Names

Common Names: Hurricane Grass, Barbados Sour Grass, Comagueyana, Indian Couch Grass, Indian-Bluegrass, Pitted Beardgrass, Bluestem Grass, Pitted Bluestem

Scientific Names: Bothriochloa pertusa, Amphilophis pertusa, Amphilophis pertusa var. barbata, Andropogon armillaris, Andropogon armillaris, Andropogon pertusus, Andropogon pertusus var. barbatus, Andropogon pertusus var. wightii, Bothriochloa nana, Bothriochloa pertusa

GBIF Accepted Name: Bothriochloa pertusa