Tiger Grass

Location

Ancient Garden

  • Common name: Tiger grass, Broom grass
  • Scientific name: Thysanolaena latifolia
  • Family name: Poaceae
  • Origin: East Asia and the Philippines
  • Height: 10 ft
  • Width: 10 ft
  • Growth: Fast
  • Zone: USDA Zones 10 through 12
  • Light needs: Full sun to part sun
  • Salt tolerance: Low
  • Soil/pH/Texture: Prefers moist, fertile soil with a neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
  • Moisture: Soil should be kept consistently moist. It is tolerant of high humidity.
  • Drought tolerance: Low
  • Pests/Diseases: Not very susceptible to pests and diseases.
  • Growing conditions: Should be grown in a warm, sunny, and humid area. It needs plenty of rain and moisture and is not very drought tolerant. It needs plenty of room to grow as this plant can become over 10 ft tall and wide. As long as these conditions are met, it is relatively low maintenance once established. Compost can be added occasionally to keep it in its best health.
  • Characteristics: This plant grows to form a tall, somewhat round clump with dropping stems. Individual stems are round, greenish-white, and grow directly from the ground. Leaves are large, leathery, with parallel veins and taper to a point. The inflorescence is a brown, brush-like structure that sprouts form the ends of stems. The fruit is small and grainy.
  • Propagation: By seeds or rhizomes.
  • Facts: In Nepal the inflorescences are dried and sold as brooms. It is also used to prevent erosion in Nepal, especially in degraded land. The leaves are also used to wrap dumplings and other food items.
  • Designer considerations: Its height makes it an effective screening plant and hedge. Its broad leaves and bamboo-like structure adds a tropical ambience.
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