Plant Overview
Often called Two-bladed Finger Grass or Asian Crabgrass, this resilient traveler has found its way from the tropical regions of Asia to sun-drenched gardens all over the globe. While many lawn enthusiasts view it as a stubborn intruder, it is actually a master of survival, designed to fill gaps in the earth where other plants struggle to grow. Its scientific name, Bicornis, hints at its unique "two-horned" appearance when it begins to bloom.
🔍 How to Identify
- 🌾 The "Finger" Spikes: The most striking feature is its seed head, which consists of several thin, finger-like spikes radiating from the top of the stem, often appearing in pairs.
- 🍃 Hairy Leaf Sheaths: If you look closely at the base of the leaves where they wrap around the stem, you’ll notice fine, soft hairs that give the plant a slightly fuzzy texture.
- 🌱 Prostrate Growth: It tends to grow low to the ground, sprawling outward in a star-like pattern rather than standing perfectly upright, which helps it dodge the blades of lawnmowers.
🏡 In Your Garden
- ☀️ Sun-Loving Opportunist: This grass thrives in disturbed soil and areas with high light. It often appears in thin patches of a lawn or along the edges of gravel paths where the soil is compacted and warm.
- 🏃♂️ The Rooting Traveler: One reason it is so hard to pull up is its ability to "creep." The nodes on its stems can touch the ground and sprout new roots, effectively tethering the plant to the earth in multiple places as it spreads.
⚠️ Safety & Toxicity
- ✅ Generally Safe: Digitaria bicornis is non-toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. It is actually frequently used as forage for livestock in various parts of the world.
- 🤧 Allergy Alert: Like many grasses, its primary "danger" is to hay fever sufferers. During its flowering season, it releases fine pollen that can trigger sneezing and itchy eyes for those with seasonal allergies.
✨ Fun Fact
The name Digitaria comes from the Latin word digitus, meaning "finger." While some species in this family have five or more "fingers," Digitaria bicornis specifically earned its name because its flowering stalks often split into just two distinct branches, resembling a pair of horns!
Detailed Care Instructions
Place in a bright room that is sun drenched almost all day. Or directly in a south-facing window.
Water-loving plants flourish in wet or sloppy soil and near ponds. The extensive root system enables these plants to absorb plenty of water. The surface of the soil should be kept moist at all times. Place your pot in a container filled with water to guarantee that plants get enough water. If the ground becomes dry, it is recommended that you water it well. Plants in smaller pots will need to be watered more frequently. Water the soil in which the plant is standing thoroughly using a watering can.
