Blue Panic Grass, Blue panicum
Panicum antidotale
Family: Poaceae or Gramineae
What it is like
Panicum antidotale is a PERENNIAL growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 3
Where it is found
Not known
E. Asia - Himalayas from Afghanistan to Nepal, and the Upper Gangetic Plain.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
One report says that the plant is edible but gives no further details. It is most likely referring to the seed.
Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The smoke of the burning plant is used to fumigate wounds and as a disinfectant in the treatment of smallpox.
Disinfectant: Used for cleaning wounds.
Other
Rating: 0
Disinfectant: Plants used for disinfecting.
How it is grown
We have almost no information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. The plant has strong spreading rhizomes. It has been experimentally planted for forage in Missouri, Texas, Oklahoma and California. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Requires a moderately fertile well-drained soil in full sun.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse and only just cover the seed. Germination should take place within a week. Prick out the seedlings into trays or individual pots and plant them out after the last expected frosts.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist