Quaking Grass
briza maxima
Also known as: ["Shaking Grass","Trembling Grass"]
Overview
A delicate annual grass with distinctive, pendulous, heart-shaped seed heads that move with the slightest breeze.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Briza |
| Botanical Name: | Briza maxima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season; major pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a location with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing in direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a potting mix designed for flowering plants; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have adequate drainage.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid frost.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; use a thermometer to monitor ambient temperature; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown directly in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; seedlings prefer a standard seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used for stem cuttings to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 2–4 weeks; seedlings typically emerge within 1–3 weeks under optimal conditions.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for cuttings; check for roots by gentle tugging after a few weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back growing tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flower heads to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune in early morning or evening; remove dead or damaged growth first; make clean cuts just above a node.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter about 2 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for refreshing soil and providing more space.
Checklist
Select a new pot with drainage holes; prepare fresh soil mix; water the plant a day before repotting; handle roots gently to avoid damage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone to avoid wetting foliage. Apply water slowly and deeply until it begins to drain from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning of leaves, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged exposure to frost may be fatal.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering and seed production.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBriza maxima is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicBriza maxima is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicBriza maxima is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Briza maxima suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but requires adequate drainage.
Q: Does Briza maxima require full sun?
A: It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: How tall does Briza maxima grow?
A: It typically reaches 30–60 cm in height.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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