Also known as Hay Grass · Jamaica Crabgrass · Jamaican Crab Grass
Jamaican crabgrass (Digitaria horizontalis) is a fast-growing annual grass, often considered a weed in agricultural and ornamental settings due to its invasive nature.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistent moisture but tolerates dry spells.
Clay, Loam, Sandy, Siliceous, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures, typically between 20-30°C.
Low
25% intensity
Requires minimal fertilization; can thrive on poor soils.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Jamaican crabgrass regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods. While it tolerates some drought, consistent moisture promotes better growth.
Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings for optimal results. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Pruning is generally not required for Jamaican crabgrass as it is typically managed as a lawn weed or groundcover. If it invades desired garden beds, manual removal is the most effective 'pruning' method.
Allow it to grow and spread if used as a low-maintenance groundcover.
Jamaican crabgrass propagates primarily through seeds, which are readily dispersed by wind and animals. It can also spread vegetatively from stolons and rhizomes.
For intentional propagation, collect seeds in late summer or fall and sow them in well-drained soil.
Repotting is not applicable to Jamaican crabgrass, as it is generally considered a weed or a naturally spreading groundcover. It is not typically grown in containers.
If it is found in a pot, manual removal is the standard practice.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Jamaican Crabgrass (Digitaria horizontalis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Digitaria |
| Species | Digitaria horizontalis |
Similar in genus Digitaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
