Briza maxima aka Greater Quaking Grass

Taxonomy

Genus Briza Family Poaceae Order Poales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Briza maxima, also known as big quaking grass or greater quaking-grass, is a species of grass native to Northern Africa, Western Asia, and Southern Europe. It can be found cultivated or naturalised in various regions including the British Isles, the Azores, Australasia, the western United States, Central and South America, and Hawaii. This erect annual grass grows up to 60cm in height and forms tufts of flat, linear leaves. It produces panicles of large, flat, ovate, pale yellow spikelets that hang from slender branches. The plant is highly valued by flower arrangers for its graceful, nodding heads of subtly colored flowers, resembling small lanterns. These flowers sway gently in the breeze and remain decorative for an extended period before shedding their seeds. Briza maxima is best grown in groups to create a maximum impact. It thrives in moist but well-drained soil, in full sun to partial shade. The flower stems can be harvested for use in dried flower arrangements during winter, and the seeds can be saved for future use. Both the seeds and leaves of Briza maxima are edible.

Common names

Greater Quaking Grass, Great Quaking Grass, Large Quaking Grass

How to care for Greater Quaking Grass

Difficulty

Greater Quaking Grass presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Greater Quaking Grass should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Greater Quaking Grass loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Greater Quaking Grass prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Greater Quaking Grass is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

Greater Quaking Grass grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

More info:
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More Species in Briza Genus

Briza maxima Greater Quaking Grass

Briza media Perennial Quaking Grass