Stylo Grass

Stylo grass (Stylosanthes spp.) is a tropical legume that is commonly used as a forage crop and as a cover crop in agricultural systems. It is native to South and Central America but has been widely introduced to other parts of the world for its value as a livestock feed and for its soil-improving properties. There are several different species of Stylo grass, with varying growth habits, but all are known for their nitrogen-fixing ability and their ability to improve soil fertility.

Stylo grass is a low-growing plant that typically grows up to 50-100 cm in height, with small, narrow leaves and bright, showy flowers that can be red, pink, or purple in color. The plant has a shallow root system, which makes it well-suited to growing in low-fertility soils.

Stylo grass is often grown in combination with other crops, such as maize, cassava, or sorghum, as a cover crop to improve soil fertility and to provide a source of forage for livestock. The plant is also used in agroforestry systems, where it is grown in combination with trees to provide shade and to improve soil fertility. Stylo grass is usually propagated through seed, and can be sown directly into the soil or planted as seedlings.

In addition to its value as a livestock feed and a soil improver, Stylo grass has a number of other uses, including erosion control, medicinal uses, and as a source of fiber for weaving. The plant is also being studied for its potential as a biofuel crop.