Contents
Description
Chrysopogon Zizanioides, commonly known as vetiver, is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to India and is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Vetiver is known for its fragrant essential oil, which is extracted from its roots and used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and other applications.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Chrysopogon |
| Species | Zizanioides |
Appearance
Vetiver grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has long, narrow leaves that can reach up to 1 meter in length. The plant produces long, thin, and branched inflorescences that can measure up to 30 centimeters in length. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruits are small, dry, and indehiscent.
Care Guide
Water
Vetiver prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization
Vetiver does not require much fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
Vetiver prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 8.5. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight
Vetiver prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Vetiver is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vetiver is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by nematodes, which can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To prevent nematode infestations, rotate crops and avoid planting vetiver in the same location for more than two years.
Habitat
Vetiver is native to India and is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It grows best in warm, humid climates and can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: What is vetiver used for?
A: Vetiver is commonly used for its fragrant essential oil, which is used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and other applications.
Q: Is vetiver easy to grow?
A: Yes, vetiver is easy to grow and requires little maintenance.
Q: Can vetiver be grown indoors?
A: Vetiver is a tall grass and is not suitable for indoor cultivation.
Q: How often should vetiver be watered?
A: Vetiver should be watered regularly during the growing season and less frequently in the winter.
Related Plants
- Chrysopogon aciculatus
- Chrysopogon aucheri
- Chrysopogon fulvus
- Chrysopogon gryllus
- Chrysopogon latifolius
References
- Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Roberty. Retrieved from https://www.ars-grin.gov/cgi-bin/npgs/html/taxon.pl?400998
- CABI. (2019). Vetiveria zizanioides (vetiver). In Invasive Species Compendium. Wallingford, UK: CAB International. Retrieved from https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/56240
- Mabberley, D. J. (2017). Mabberley’s plant-book: A portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. New York, NY: Cambridge University Press.
