Digitaria nuda, or Naked Crabgrass, is a vigorous annual grass often found in disturbed soils. It spreads rapidly via seeds and stolons, forming dense mats.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and vigor. Can tolerate partial shade but may become less dense.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Tolerates some drought but thrives with consistent moisture. Avoid soggy conditions.
Loam, Sand, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, typically from 18°C to 30°C. It is sensitive to frost and will die back in colder weather.
Low to Moderate
50% intensity
Benefits from a balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent weak growth. Generally performs well without heavy feeding.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. This grass is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but consistent moisture promotes lusher growth. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency in cooler months or during periods of dormancy.
Prune back dead or damaged foliage in early spring before new growth begins. While not typically a plant requiring heavy pruning, trimming can tidy its appearance and encourage denser growth.
Remove flower stalks if seed production is undesirable.
Propagates readily from seeds sown directly in the ground in spring after the last frost. It can also be propagated by division of established clumps in spring or early fall.
Ensure good soil contact for seeds and timely watering.
Naked crabgrass is a vigorous annual or short-lived perennial and is not typically container-grown or repotted. If grown in a pot, it will likely outgrow its container quickly and may need to be transplanted into the ground or divided.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Naked Crabgrass (Digitaria nuda)
Where Naked Crabgrass (Digitaria nuda) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Digitaria |
| Species | Digitaria nuda |
Similar in genus Digitaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
