Pogonatherum paniceum is taxonomically related to our field grasses. This relationship is emphasized by his belonging to the Myatlikov or Zlakov family. The plant's generic name is derived from the Greek pogo and ather, meaning beard and flower. Indeed, the spike-shaped flowers of the plant are surrounded, like a beard, with rigid awns.
Pogonaterum is known as indoor reed or miniature bamboo, which is quite justified. By its appearance (hollow stem, shape of leaves and their location on the stem), as well as some features of growth (speed), the plant is similar to bamboo.
In the wild, it is found in the eastern part of Asia, China and the vastness of Malaysia, preferring wet places.
Pogonaterum is widely used in indoor floriculture. It is very popular when decorating Japanese (Chinese) style interiors.
Description of the plant
In nature, this is an evergreen herbaceous plant, outwardly similar to a low cereal with stems curved in an arc. Stems herbaceous or strawy, bushy, erect or curved, of various heights: minimum 10, maximum 60 cm. Leaves are elongated lanceolate, green and tender. They densely cover the stems, giving the impression of a bush resembling miniature thickets. It will not be possible to see flowers - the plant does not bloom under indoor conditions, and even in nature this does not happen often. Only adults bloom.
Caring for the pogonaterum at home
Lighting
The plant loves illuminated places, but this should not be abused: the leaves of the pogonaterum are prone to fading.
Temperature
Indoor bamboo is a plant that loves warmth. The optimum temperature for the pogonaterum is 30-35 degrees. The preferred air temperature in winter is not higher than 18 degrees.
A pot with a pogonaterum should not be placed next to a heat source and under (above) streams of warm air. In summer, the plant is often placed outdoors.
Air humidity
Pogonaterum loves air with high humidity. In dry air, as well as with temperature fluctuations, the tips of the leaves, drying out, darken. Moss and expanded clay can be used to maintain optimal humidity.
Watering
The plant needs to be watered frequently and abundantly: the soil should always be, even in winter, slightly damp. For irrigation, it is better to use warm, settled water.
Watering should be uniform, excluding drying out and waterlogging. The plant will “signal” the irregularity of watering by drying the tips of the leaves. Good drainage is very important!
The soil
The basis of the substrate is sod land (loam or clay). Humus and peat are added to it in a ratio of 2: 1: 1.
Top dressing and fertilizers
Top dressing of the pogonaterum is carried out every 2 or 3 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizers.
Pot selection
Pogonaterum needs a spacious "dwelling": it grows very quickly, filling the entire space of the pot to the limit. Low, wide containers will be ideal for him.
Transfer
Actively growing plants are transplanted annually, changing the container to a larger one in diameter.
Pruning
To form a spectacular bush, the pogonaterum is "trimmed". This allows you to regulate the growth of the plant and maintain its shape.
Reproduction of pogonaterum
The plant reproduces vegetatively - by dividing the bush. These procedures are carried out in the spring, after the plant leaves the "sleep state"
The plant removed from the pot is carefully freed from excess soil. Then the bush is separated into parts, carefully, using a wooden stick, taking apart the roots.
The most important condition for division is maximum care when separating the roots in order to preserve their integrity. If root damage cannot be avoided, a brown spot will appear on the leaves.
Growing difficulties
- With insufficient humidity and sudden changes in temperature, the tips of the leaves can dry out.
- If the roots are damaged, for example during transplanting, brown spots may form on the leaves.
- Direct sunlight (especially in hot weather) can burn the leaves.
- With improper and uneven watering, the tips of the leaves and the shoots themselves dry out.
Diseases and pests
Of the pests, the most dangerous for the pogonaterum is spider mite.
