Buffel Grass, also known as Cenchrus ciliaris, is a species of grass native to Africa, but widely used in Australia for cattle grazing. The spelling of the word "Buffel" uses the IPA phonetic transcription, with the "u" representing an "ʌ" sound, which is a short, low-mid vowel. The "f" pronounces as "f" sound, and the second "l" as a syllabic "l", resulting in a schwa-like vowel sound, shown as "əl". The word is spelled as such due to its origin from the Afrikaans word "boffel", meaning "buffalo".
Buffel grass, scientifically known as Cenchrus ciliaris, is a warm-season perennial grass native to Africa and India. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is widely cultivated in various regions due to its ability to adapt to diverse soil and climatic conditions. The grass has become popular in arid and semi-arid regions for its resistance to drought, heat, and grazing pressure.
This grass species is characterized by its dense tufted growth habit, with stems growing up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) in height. The leaves are typically grey-green in color, arising from the base of the stem and coated with fine hairs, providing it with a buffed appearance from which it derives its name.
Buffel grass is renowned for its extensive root system with roots penetrating deep into the soil, allowing it to access water and nutrients unreachable by other grasses. It is highly adaptable to different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils.
One of the major advantages of buffel grass lies in its high forage quality as fodder for livestock, specifically cattle and sheep. Its leaves and stems are highly palatable and nutritious, providing a rich source of protein and energy. Moreover, buffel grass can withstand heavy grazing and recover rapidly, making it a valuable resource in grazing systems.
However, buffel grass has also become an invasive species in some regions, such as parts of Australia and the United States, where it outcompetes native grasses and alters natural ecosystems. Efforts have been undertaken to control and eradicate buffel grass in such areas to protect native biodiversity.
The word "Buffel Grass" comes from the Afrikaans language. It is derived from the word "buffel", which means buffalo. The grass got its name due to its association with South African buffalo, as they often graze on this type of grass.