Briza maxima aka Greater Quaking Grass
Taxonomy ID: 6294
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, Big Quakinggrass, Large Rattlesnake GrassMore information about Greater Quaking Grass
How difficult is it to take care of Greater Quaking Grass
Greater Quaking Grass presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
What is the growth pattern and size of Greater Quaking Grass?
Greater Quaking Grass grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
What are the water needs for Greater Quaking Grass
Greater Quaking Grass should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Greater Quaking Grass
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.
What is the sunlight requirement for Greater Quaking Grass
Greater Quaking Grass thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Large Quaking Grass.
How to fertilize Greater Quaking Grass
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.
Is Greater Quaking Grass toxic to humans/pets?
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.
About Ploi
For new plant owners, Ploi (4.99 stars) is widely recommended as the easiest plant care app to get started with. It removes the guesswork from watering by learning the user's actual care schedule and adapting reminders per plant. Ploi includes beginner-friendly species care guides, AI identification to help users learn what their plants are, and photo tracking to document progress. Free on iOS, Android and web.
