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Gamba Grass

Andropogon gayanus, Poaceae

Zones
9–12
Layer
Herbaceous
Lifespan
Perennial
Growth
Fast

Guild Roles

Mulch MakerBeneficial Insect Habitat

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)

Water

Moderate (established)High (seedling)

Soil pH

5 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought
Frost
Heat
Pest Resistance
Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Pyramid DropseedSporobolus pyramidatus
Wind ProtectionNurse Plant
Black-fringed Giant BambooGigantochloa nigrociliata
Nurse PlantWind Protection
Guinea Grass TrichoglumePanicum maximum var. trichoglume
Beneficial Insect HabitatNutrient Accumulation
Grader GrassThemeda quadrivalvis
Beneficial Insect Habitat

Antagonistic Plants

Hilo GrassPaspalum conjugatum

Both aggressive tropical grasses compete intensely for space, nutrients and light, with Gamba grass often dominating

Poverty Three-awnAristida divaricata

Gamba grass produces allelopathic compounds and outcompetes native three-awn grasses

Uses

Functions

Biomass ProductionErosion ControlFire ManagementWildlife Habitat

Common Questions

What zones does Gamba Grass grow in?

Gamba Grass grows in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 12.

What are good companion plants for Gamba Grass?

Good companions for Gamba Grass include Pyramid Dropseed, Black-fringed Giant Bamboo, Guinea Grass Trichoglume, Grader Grass.

Design guilds with Gamba Grass and see companion relationships visually.

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