Cenchrus clandestinus
kikuyu grass
Overview
Cenchrus clandestinus, formerly Pennisetum clandestinum, is a vigorous, mat-forming perennial grass of the family Poaceae. It spreads by thick stolons above ground and rhizomes below, forming a dense sod 1–4 inches (2.5–10 cm) high when mown and 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) when unmown. The folded young leaves are bright green, 1–6 inches (2.5–15 cm) long and about 0.1–0.2 inch (3–5 mm) wide, borne on short, crowded shoots. The flowers are reduced and largely hidden within the leaf sheaths, with only the thread-like white styles and stamens protruding, the source of the species name clandestinus. C. clandestinus is native to the highlands of East Africa and is widely planted as a lawn and pasture grass in warm regions. It tolerates heavy wear, drought, and a range of soils once established, but it is frost-sensitive, spreads strongly by runners, and is listed as an environmental weed in many areas where it invades bushland and waterways.
Native Range
Native to the highlands of East Africa, and introduced as a lawn and pasture grass in warm-temperate and subtropical regions worldwide.Suggested Uses
Used as a hard-wearing lawn and pasture grass and for erosion control on banks in warm climates. Suited to high-traffic, low-water lawns and sports surfaces. Its runners make it unsuited to sites next to bushland or unmaintained beds.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1" - 1'6"
Width/Spread2' - 20'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs through the warmer months but is inconspicuous, with the reduced flowers held within the upper leaf sheaths. Thread-like white styles and stamens emerge briefly for wind pollination. Seed is set within the sheaths, and the grass also spreads strongly by stolons and rhizomes.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
bright greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 5-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight