Scientific Name

Imperata cylindrica (L.) Raeusch.


Other Names


Life Form

Herb


Family

Poaceae



Image by - Saroj Kasaju
Usages

Food - Young inflorescence and young shoots are cooked and consumed. Root - fibrous but pleasant to chew, containing starch and sugar. The ash of the plant is used as a salt substitute. Medicine - The flowers and roots of have antibacterial, diuretic, emollient, febrifuge, and tonic properties. Wood - Construction: The plant can also be used in construction and as fibre; the stems are used for thatching, the leaves for paper-making, weaving mats, bags and raincoats. Eco-restoration- Can be planted on sandy soils to prevent erosion. The plants form impenetrably dense clumps and when planted close together in drifts make an excellent ground cover.


Native to

Afghanistan


Habitat

Temperate biome.


Conservation Status

Not evaluated



Plant Description

Perennial herb 1.5 m tall.

Erect, slender, and often reddish at the base.

Long, narrow, and tough, with sharp edges.

Silvery-white, plume-like inflorescences.

A small, dry fruit called a caryopsis. This is typical of grasses.


Phenology

Flowering: Spring-Early summer.