Heteropogon contortus
TAXONOMY
FamilyPoaceae
GenusHeteropogon
Zone9
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Heteropogon contortus, commonly known as tanglehead, is a perennial grass native to seasonally dry tropical climates. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is known for its twisted awns that give it a distinctive appearance. This grass is often found in open grasslands and savannas.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Sorghum Contortum
Tanglehead
Andropogon allionii
Andropogon austrocaledonicus
Andropogon bellardii
Andropogon besukiensis
Andropogon contortum
Andropogon contortus
Andropogon contortus subvar. hispidissimus
Andropogon contortus subvar. secundus
Andropogon contortus var. contortus
Andropogon contortus var. glaber
Andropogon contortus var. macroglumis
Andropogon firmus
Andropogon glaber
Andropogon hispidissimus
Andropogon hohenackeri
Andropogon messanensis
Andropogon polystachyos
Andropogon secundus
Heteropogon allionii
Heteropogon besukiensis
Heteropogon contortus subvar. secundus
Heteropogon contortus var. allionii
Heteropogon contortus var. contortus
Heteropogon contortus var. glaber
Heteropogon contortus var. hispidissimus
Heteropogon contortus var. polystachyos
Heteropogon fertilis
Heteropogon firmus
Heteropogon glaber
Heteropogon hirsutus
Heteropogon hirtus
Heteropogon hirtus var. glaber
Heteropogon hispidissimus
Heteropogon hohenackeri
Heteropogon messanensis
Heteropogon roxburghii
Holcus contortus
Holcus contortus var. secundus
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Heteropogon contortus thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It can tolerate dry conditions and does not require frequent watering. This grass is well-suited for outdoor growth in areas with seasonal rainfall.Soil
Heteropogon contortus prefers well-draining loam soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in soils that dry out between waterings. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
This grass does not have high fertilizer requirements. If needed, a balanced fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the growing season to support healthy growth.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for Heteropogon contortus as it is typically grown outdoors. However, if grown in containers, repotting can be done in the spring to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth.Propagation
Heteropogon contortus can be propagated by seed. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil during the spring or early summer. Ensure the seeds receive adequate sunlight and water until they establish.Pruning
Pruning is not required for Heteropogon contortus. However, removing dead or damaged foliage can help maintain a tidy appearance and promote healthy growth.Toxicity
Heteropogon contortus is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. It is generally considered safe for use in gardens and landscapes.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
