What is pennisetum clandestinum or Kikuyu?
pennisetum clandestinum, commonly known as kikuyu or coarse grass, is a species of grass belonging to the Poaceae family. Native to East Africa, it is adapted to warm and temperate climates, where it has become one of the most widely used species in both public and private gardening due to its hardiness, rapid establishment, and ease of maintenance.
This species has stems thick, juicy and nutritious, capable of spreading by means of rhizomes and stolons, forming dense and aggressive bushes These plants can dominate the landscape and even displace other species. The leaves are thick-textured, flat, and deep green when actively growing, though somewhat rough to the touch. When not controlled by mowing, their height can reach 10-13 decimeters, although in gardening and ornamental turf, they remain much shorter.
Main features and advantages of Kikuyu
Kikuyu grass stands out for several competitive advantages compared to other warm-climate turfgrass species:
- High resistance to drought, since it can survive with little watering and even with low quality or slightly saline water.
- Withstands high temperatures and sun exposure without suffering any significant damage, making it a preferred option in areas with a Mediterranean climate, coastal areas, or places with very hot summers.
- Its rhizomes and stolons allow rapid expansion and strong recovery power against trampling, intensive use or after periods of stress.
- Low need for fertilization and maintenance, although it responds very well to nitrogen and produces spectacular development if the soil is fertile.
- Works like ideal ground cover to control erosion, revegetate slopes or maintain low-use green areas.
However, it should be noted that this vegetative aggressiveness also means that it can be considered an invasive species in certain regions, being its implementation is prohibited in some territories to protect native biodiversity.
Latency period and cold tolerance
The Kikuyu is a C4 species, that is, of a warm climate, so enters a period of winter dormancy when temperatures drop below 4-5°C. During this time, growth slows considerably and the grass loses color, acquiring a yellowish or straw-colored hue, but without drying out completely. With the return of mild temperatures, it sprouts again and greens up quickly.
In climates with particularly cold winters, the kikuyu can be affected and even suffer root damage if temperatures drop below -3°C, although its powerful root system helps it regrow in spring.
Soil requirements and ecological adaptation
The kikuyu is extremely adaptable to soil types.It thrives optimally in loose, well-drained substrates, tolerating low pH, moderate salinity, and sandy soils. It even adapts to poor soils if properly fertilized, although biomass production will be lower in these cases.
Additionally, it tolerates a diverse range of altitude and humidity, thriving in both coastal and mountain environments, as long as it receives sufficient sunlight. Not suitable for shady areas or permanent shade.
Establishment and sowing of Kikuyu grass
For a successful implementation, The soil temperature must exceed 15-18 ºC, with sowing recommended from mid-spring to late summer. The ideal dose is between 5 and 12 grams of seed per square meter. In some cases, it's mixed with English ryegrass to achieve a green, uniform lawn quickly, as ryegrass sprouts earlier and provides initial cover while the kikuyu grass establishes.
Germination may be somewhat slow the first year, but Its vegetative growth picks up speed as soon as it is well rootedIt is even capable of spreading through the digestive tract of animals that graze on it, a relevant fact for its agricultural and livestock use.
Kikuyu grass maintenance
Su maintenance is really simpleRegular mowing is sufficient to prevent the formation of mats, which can hinder the access of air, water, and nutrients to the soil. The most recommended cutting height is between 3 and 4 cm. A low cut reduces the thickness of the mat and keeps the grass finer.
- It needs scarifying twice a year (spring and autumn) to remove buildup and maintain the vitality of the lawn.
- Mowing frequency increases in the warm season due to its growth rate.
- Slow-release fertilizers enhance its color and vigor throughout the year.
- Few pest and disease problems. Among the most significant is the grass bug (Collaria spp.) but they are usually not very problematic.
In private and public gardening, or areas surrounding swimming pools, the combination of Low watering, resistance to trampling and minimal maintenance making it a kind of priority choice for those looking for a functional and economical lawn.
Diversity and variety: Whittet and other cultivars
Within the genus, the variety Whittet It is one of the most cultivated. It is characterized by entering dormancy later than other summer species (such as Bermudagrass), maintains its color better in winter and rarely needs reseeding.
- Limited water consumption.
- High tolerance to salinity, drought, trampling and diseases.
- Low maintenance and high upholstery capacity.
Alternative uses: forage, ornamental and erosion control
In addition to its use in Sports and recreational turfs, Kikuyu is essential in livestock farming Due to its high biomass production, high protein content, and rapid recovery after grazing. It is also valued for hay and silage. It is not recommended to combine it with other forage species, as it can overpower them due to competition and produce toxins that make it difficult to coexist with other plants (nitrates and oxalates).
Its ability to form a dense and resistant coverage making it ideal for stabilizing soils and preventing erosion on slopes or sloping areas, also contributing to the reduction of weeds and the appearance of weeds.
Thanks to all these qualities, Pennisetum clandestinum is one of the favorite grasses where resistance, low maintenance and ease of implementation are prioritized., whether in domestic gardens, public parks, sports facilities or livestock farms.