Cymbopogons

In parts of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka boda (బోధ గడ్డి) is the common name for is the common name for three different Cymbopogon grasses found in our sites: Cymbopogon martinii (Roxb.) J. F. Watson, Cymbopogon caesius (Hook. & Arn.) Stapf, and Cymbopogon jwarancusa (Jones) Schult his is an evergreen, clump-forming, perennial grass producing erect culms 30 - 280 cm tall. 

Measuring the height of Cymbopogon jwarancusa

This grass grows well in a well-drained gravelly soil. In summer, this grass can become highly flammable  in its growing season that is in February- March and increases the fire intensity.

Cymbopogon jwarancusa

One clump of grass cover about 7 square meters of area and generally other grasses and herbs are not found in this area.

Cymbopogon jwarancusa

Herbarium specimen of Cymbopogon jwarancusa

In a recent study, we demonstrated that the removal of this dominant grass and exclusion of fire resulted in positive outcomes for both human livelihoods and biodiversity. We believe that fire management alone is not adequate to restore ecosystems to their desired or historical state, a common practice in many parts of the world. Read more about our findings in the article.

A summer fodder crop

Flowers of Sehima nervosum

Sehima nervosum is a common perennial grass found in open areas and wastelands in India. In the Telugu-speaking regions of Chittoor and Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, it's affectionately known as Konda gaddi. It's considered one of the most versatile fodder grasses, even when it's dry. Livestock keepers often turn to it when other, more palatable options are scarce. Its preferred habitats are red soils, loams, and sandy soils.

Herbarium specimen of Sehima nervosum

This tufted, upright perennial grass typically grows to a height of 100-120 cm, with slender, brittle stems. The leaves can reach up to 30 cm in length and turn a characteristic white hue as the plant matures. The seed head resembles a rat's tail and measures 6–10 cm in length. Sehima nervosum typically blooms from December to January.