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Description
Anthoxanthum Occidentale is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to western North America, from British Columbia to California. It is commonly known as western sweetgrass, vanilla grass, or holy grass. The plant has a sweet vanilla-like fragrance that is popular for use in perfumes and other fragrances. It is considered a sacred plant by many Native American tribes and is used in various spiritual ceremonies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Anthoxanthum |
Appearance
Anthoxanthum Occidentale grows up to 60cm in height and has a dense, tufted growth habit. The leaves are narrow, flat, and up to 10cm long. The flowers are greenish-yellow and arranged in spikelets that are up to 10cm long. The plant has a sweet vanilla-like fragrance that is most pronounced when the leaves are crushed or rubbed.
Care Guide
Anthoxanthum Occidentale is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade but can tolerate full sun. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote growth. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Anthoxanthum Occidentale is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and smut. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and overcrowding the plant. Insects such as grasshoppers and aphids may also feed on the plant, but they rarely cause significant damage.
Habitat
Anthoxanthum Occidentale is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade but can tolerate full sun. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry, arid climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Anthoxanthum Occidentale a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Anthoxanthum Occidentale is a low-maintenance plant that can be used for landscaping in areas with well-draining soil and partial shade.
Q: Can Anthoxanthum Occidentale be grown indoors?
A: No, Anthoxanthum Occidentale is an outdoor plant that requires sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Anthoxanthum Occidentale be watered?
A: Anthoxanthum Occidentale is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: How can I propagate Anthoxanthum Occidentale?
A: Anthoxanthum Occidentale can be propagated by division in the spring. Dig up the plant and separate the clumps, then replant in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Anthoxanthum aristatum
- Anthoxanthum odoratum
- Anthoxanthum nipponicum
References
- “Anthoxanthum Occidentale – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282453&isprofile=0&basic=western%20sweetgrass
- “Anthoxanthum Occidentale.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ANOC6
- “Western Sweetgrass (Anthoxanthum Occidentale).” Native American Ethnobotany Database. http://naeb.brit.org/uses/search/?string=Anthoxanthum+occidentale
