Also known as Birdwoodgrass · Gallon's Curse · India Sandbur
Indian sandbur (Cenchrus biflorus) is a tufted annual grass native to Africa, Asia, and Australia, known for its spiny burs. It can be an invasive weed.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
Drought Tolerant
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Infrequent watering is best.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm Tolerant
75% intensity
Prefers warm to hot temperatures and can withstand considerable heat.
Low Feeder
25% intensity
Requires minimal to no fertilization; thrives in poor, sandy soils.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Indian sandbur prefers dry conditions. Water only when the soil has completely dried out, typically every 3-4 weeks during the growing season. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering significantly in cooler months to prevent waterlogged soil.
Pruning is typically not necessary for aesthetic purposes as Cenchrus biflorus is a low-growing grass. Remove any dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain plant health.
If it becomes invasive, cut back the entire plant to the ground to control spread.
Indian sandbur primarily reproduces via seeds, which are dispersed by wind and animals. For controlled propagation, collect seeds after they mature and sow them in well-draining soil.
Scarification or stratification may improve germination rates.
Repotting is generally not applicable as Cenchrus biflorus is typically grown as a groundcover or in its native habitat. If grown in a container and it becomes root-bound, select a slightly larger pot with excellent drainage and replant.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Indian Sandbur (Cenchrus biflorus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Cenchrus |
| Species | Cenchrus biflorus |
Similar in genus Cenchrus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
