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Description
Briza Marcowiczii, commonly known as Marcowicz’s quaking grass, is a species of grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. This perennial plant is native to the Mediterranean region and can grow up to 50 cm in height. It is characterized by its unique and delicate inflorescence, which resembles a heart-shaped, quivering panicle.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Briza |
Appearance
The Briza Marcowiczii plant has narrow, green leaves that grow up to 15 cm in length. Its inflorescence, which appears from late spring to early summer, is made up of numerous small, heart-shaped spikelets that hang from slender stems. The spikelets are light green in color and turn beige as they mature. When the wind blows, the spikelets sway and quiver, giving the plant its common name of quaking grass. After flowering, the spikelets dry and become papery, making them ideal for use in dried flower arrangements.
Care Guide
Briza Marcowiczii is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your quaking grass:
- Water: Water the plant once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the Briza Marcowiczii in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Briza Marcowiczii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Briza Marcowiczii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some of the common issues you may encounter:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Slugs and snails: These pests eat the leaves and young shoots of the plant. Use slug bait or copper tape to keep them away.
Habitat
Briza Marcowiczii is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in dry, rocky soils in open meadows, along roadsides, and on hillsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Briza Marcowiczii deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Briza Marcowiczii be grown indoors?
A: No, this plant is not suitable for indoor growing.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Briza Marcowiczii?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Briza Marcowiczii need to be pruned?
A: No, this plant does not require pruning.
Related Plants
- Briza media (Quaking grass)
- Briza maxima (Giant quaking grass)
- Briza minor (Lesser quaking grass)
References
- “Briza Marcowiczii” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g750
- “Briza Marcowiczii” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/136125/Briza-marcowiczii/Details
- “Briza Marcowiczii” Plant Lust, www.plantlust.com/plants/briza-marcowiczii/
