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Taeniatherum caput-medusae
Taeniatherum caput-medusae
Taeniatherum caput-medusae
Taeniatherum caput-medusae

Taeniatherum caput-medusae

TAXONOMY

FamilyPoaceae
GenusTaeniatherum
Zone7

ABOUT

Taeniatherum caput-medusae, commonly known as medusahead, is an annual grass in the family Poaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region but has become an invasive species in many parts of the world, particularly in subtropical climates. The plant is known for its long, twisting awns that resemble the snakes on Medusa's head from Greek mythology.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Medusahead
Cuviera aspera
Cuviera bobartii
Cuviera caput-medusae
Cuviera caput-medusae var. aspera
Cuviera crinita
Elymus asper
Elymus caput-medusae
Elymus caput-medusae f. pubivaginatus
Elymus caput-medusae subsp. bobartii
Elymus caput-medusae subsp. crinitus
Elymus caput-medusae var. asper
Elymus caput-medusae var. bobartii
Elymus caput-medusae var. crinitus
Elymus crinitus
Elymus crinitus var. major
Elymus crinitus var. microstachyus
Elymus crinitus var. minor
Elymus crinitus var. siculus
Elymus intermedius
Elymus montanus
Elymus platatherus
Hordelymus asper
Hordelymus caput-medusae
Hordelymus caput-medusae subsp. asper
Hordelymus caput-medusae subsp. crinitus
Hordeum asperum
Hordeum bobartii
Hordeum caput-medusae
Hordeum caput-medusae subsp. asperum
Hordeum caput-medusae subsp. crinitum
Hordeum caput-medusae var. asperum
Hordeum crinitum
Hordeum intermedium var. intermedium
Leptothrix caput-medusae
Leptothrix crinita
Taeniatherum asperum
Taeniatherum caput-medusae subsp. asper
Taeniatherum caput-medusae subsp. caput-medusae
Taeniatherum caput-medusae subsp. crinitum
Taeniatherum caput-medusae var. caput-medusae
Taeniatherum caput-medusae var. crinitum
Taeniatherum crinitum
Taeniatherum crinitum var. caput-medusae

OVERVIEW

WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions
Medusahead is relatively easy to care for, requiring bright, direct sunlight and moderate temperatures. It thrives in areas with low to moderate humidity and does not require frequent watering, as it prefers soil that dries out almost completely between waterings.
Soil
Medusahead prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in soils that are not overly rich in nutrients. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
This plant does not require regular fertilization. If necessary, a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be used, but it generally thrives in nutrient-poor soils.
Repotting
As an annual plant, medusahead does not require repotting. It completes its life cycle within a single growing season and will need to be replanted from seed each year.
Propagation
Medusahead is propagated by seed. Seeds should be sown in the fall or early spring. Ensure the seeds are lightly covered with soil and kept in a sunny location for optimal growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for medusahead. The plant will naturally complete its life cycle and die back at the end of the growing season.
Toxicity
Medusahead is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, its sharp awns can cause physical irritation if handled carelessly.
Additional
Medusahead is considered an invasive species in many regions due to its aggressive growth and ability to outcompete native vegetation. It is important to manage its spread to protect local ecosystems.
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