Soft Love Grass, Indian lovegrass

Eragrostis pilosa

Physical Characteristics

Eragrostis pilosa is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) 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.

Distribution

Warm Temperate regions.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - ground into a flour and used as a cereal[105]. It is generally seen as a famine food, but is used regularly in some areas[177]. The seed is very small and fiddly to utilize[K].

Medicinal Uses

Vulnerary The plant is said to be an effective cure for contusions[218].

Known Hazards

None known