Sporobolus maritimus, or synonymously as Spartina maritima, the small cordgrass, is a species of cordgrass native to the coasts of western and southern Europe and western Africa, from the Netherlands west across southern England to southern Ireland, and south along the Atlantic coast to Morocco and also on the Mediterranean Sea coasts. There is also a disjunct population on the Atlantic coasts of Namibia and South Africa.
Cape cordgrass is resistant to disease and typically not prone to illnesses. In terms of care, the plant is relatively low-maintenance. Planted outdoors, it needs minimal watering, and larger specimens usually do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Cape cordgrass is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not require much care experience.
How to keep Spartina Maritima.
Light
Cape cordgrass is a perennial, herbaceous, sun-loving plant that comes from open habitats and commonly grows in meadows and grasslands. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.
Temperature
Cape cordgrass can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, yet its distribution may still be restricted by particular combinations of moisture and heat. It performs best in warm summer conditions with adequate rainfall or watering. Long stretches of cloudy, rainy weather and sustained high temperatures can increase the chance of Cape cordgrass dying. During winter, protecting it from cold can enhance its survival.
Fertilizer
Cape cordgrass needs extra nutrients to encourage healthy new growth. In spring, placing some compost around the base of the plant can effectively supply the necessary nourishment. Fertilizing helps support vigorous growth and improves the plant’s resistance to diseases and pests.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Grass
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Spartina
- Family
- Poaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 7-10
- Mature Height
- 30 cm to 91 cm
- Mature Spread
- 20 cm to 49 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Size
- 0.20 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Morocco, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, South Africa, Namibia, Mauritania, France, United Kingdom, Greece, Croatia, Slovenia, Belgium, Portugal
Other names.
