Grasses, Sedges, Cattails, and Allies of Zihuatanejo

ORDER POALES

-Grasses (Family Poaceae)

-Bristlegrasses, Bluestems, Paspalums, and Allies (Subfamily Panicoideae)

-Bristlegrasses, Rosette Grasses, Barnyard Grasses, and Allies (Tribe Paniceae)

-Subtribe Boivinellinae

-Genus Lasiacis

-Smallcane (Lasiacis divaricata)

Lasiacis divaricata (also known as smallcane and Wild Bamboo) is a plant in the grass family Poaceae. he plant's hollow, freely branching stems often grow in a zigzag pattern and support smooth, narrowly lanceolate leaves that resemble miniature bamboo. Its reproductive structures consist of open, loosely flowered panicles that produce ovoid spikelets. A key identifying feature is the fruit, a small grain that turns a shiny, distinctive black colour upon reaching maturity. Thriving primarily in the understory of hammocks and woodlands, Smallcane is well-adapted to moist, well-drained limestone or sandy soils.

Description

• Lasiacis divaricata, commonly known as smallcane or wild bamboo grass, is a perennial, climbing or sprawling grass in the family Poaceae. Its slender, branching stems may lean on or climb through surrounding vegetation, sometimes forming tangled masses. The leaves are narrow to lance-shaped, with pointed tips and rough margins. Its open, branching flower clusters bear small spikelets that develop into rounded fruits, which may become dark purple to black when mature. The plant can resemble a small bamboo because of its jointed stems and leafy growth.

Range

• Lasiacis divaricata is native to tropical and subtropical America, ranging from the southern United States through Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean to South America. It is native to Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• It grows in warm, seasonally dry and humid tropical environments, including tropical deciduous forest, woodland margins, scrub, and disturbed sites. It commonly grows among shrubs and trees, using surrounding vegetation for support. It is adapted to warm conditions and can persist along forest edges and in partially shaded areas where moisture is seasonally available.