Weeping lovegrass

Eragrostis tremula

NAME: Eragrostis tremula

FAMILY: Poaceae (Grass family)

COMMON NAMES: Quaking lovegrass, Weeping lovegrass

LOCAL NAMES: N/A

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Eragrostis tremula is a perennial grass species that typically grows in tufts or clumps. It has slender stems that reach heights of about 60-90 centimeters. The leaves are linear, narrow, and about 10-25 centimeters long. They have a bluish-green color and can form dense, lush foliage. The inflorescence is composed of delicate, nodding panicles with numerous tiny flowers that have a purple or purplish-brown hue. The panicles often give the appearance of quivering or shaking when touched or in the wind.

USEFUL PART(s): The whole plant of Eragrostis tremula is used for various purposes.

GENERAL USES:

  1. Erosion Control: Eragrostis tremula is commonly used in land reclamation and erosion control projects. The dense growth and extensive root system of this grass help stabilize soils, reduce erosion, and prevent the loss of topsoil.

  2. Ornamental Purposes: Due to its attractive appearance and unique panicle movement, Eragrostis tremula is sometimes grown as an ornamental grass in gardens and landscapes. It adds visual interest with its quivering inflorescences and can provide a soft, wispy texture to garden designs.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Eragrostis tremula is native to various regions in Africa, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Namibia. It has also been introduced and naturalized in other parts of the world, such as Australia and the United States.

WHY IS IT GREEN? Eragrostis tremula, like other plants, appears green due to the presence of chlorophyll in its leaves. Chlorophyll is a pigment that absorbs sunlight during photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue wavelengths of light while reflecting green light, giving plants their characteristic green color.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Eragrostis tremula can have positive environmental impacts in various ways. As a grass species, it helps stabilize soils, reduce erosion, and prevent nutrient runoff. Its dense growth can provide habitat and cover for small animals and insects. Additionally, it is a valuable resource for grazing livestock and can contribute to forage production in certain regions.

FUN FACT: The distinctive quivering or shaking movement of the inflorescences in Eragrostis tremula is an adaptive feature known as "flimsy racemes." This movement is believed to help dislodge pollen from the flowers, aiding in pollination by wind or small insects.

Further Reading:

  1. "Weeping Lovegrass (Eragrostis tremula) Management for Conservation Plantings." By A. L. Quicke and R. B. Mitchell.

  2. "Eragrostis tremula Hochst. Ex Steud." By B.R. Lovegrove.

  3. "Eragrostis tremula (Lovegrass) - Global Invasive Species Database." Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG).