Lolium perenne aka Perennial Ryegrass

Taxonomy

Lolium perenne, also known as perennial ryegrass, English ryegrass, winter ryegrass, or ray grass, belongs to the Poaceae family and is native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa. It is a cool-season, evergreen, and short-lived perennial grass that is widely cultivated and naturalized around the world. The plant forms a clump of broad, linear, flat, dark green leaves with prominent, parallel furrows and produces green flower spikelets in the summer that turn grey or tan with age. Perennial ryegrass is often used as a lawn grass and is a rare houseplant that is not difficult to grow, requiring regular watering and long-lasting, direct light. It prefers well-draining soil and benefits from gentle, organic fertilizer during the peak growing season.

Common names

Perennial Ryegrass, English Ryegrass, Italian Ryegrass, Winter Ryegrass, Ray Grass

How to care for Perennial Ryegrass

Difficulty

Perennial Ryegrass requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Perennial Ryegrass should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Perennial Ryegrass 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

Perennial Ryegrass requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Ray Grass will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Growth-pattern

The Perennial Ryegrass is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.

Region of origin

Perennial Ryegrass’s native range is Europe to E. Asia.


More info:
Wikipedia