Contents
Description
Briza Media, commonly known as Quaking Grass, is a beautiful ornamental grass that is native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is a popular choice for adding texture and movement to any garden. This grass has long, thin stems that support delicate, heart-shaped seed heads that move gracefully in the wind. It is a cool-season grass that flowers from early summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Briza |
Appearance
Briza Media is a clump-forming grass that grows up to 24 inches tall and 18 inches wide. Its leaves are narrow and bright green, and they arch gracefully from the stem. The seed heads are its most distinctive feature, as they are heart-shaped, light green, and usually hang in clusters of three or more. As the seed heads mature, they turn a pale straw color, giving the grass a delicate, ethereal look. When planted in large groups, Briza Media creates a stunning display of movement and texture in the garden.
Care Guide
Briza Media is an easy-to-grow grass that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy and happy:- Water: Briza Media prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: This grass doesn’t need much fertilizer. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring should be sufficient.- Soil: Briza Media prefers fertile, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or clayey, add some organic matter to improve drainage.- Sunlight: This grass prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will cause it to become leggy and floppy.- Hardiness Zones: Briza Media is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Briza Media is generally free from serious pest and disease problems. However, it may be susceptible to rust and fungal diseases in humid conditions. To prevent these problems, make sure to plant it in well-drained soil and avoid overcrowding.
Habitat
Briza Media is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in meadows, woodlands, and along roadsides. It prefers cool, moist conditions and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. In the garden, it looks best when planted in large groups or mixed with other ornamental grasses and perennials.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Briza Media deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Briza Media is deer-resistant.
Q: Can I grow Briza Media in a container?
A: Yes, Briza Media can be grown in a container, but it may not reach its full size.
Q: How do I propagate Briza Media?
A: Briza Media can be propagated by division in the spring or by seed in the fall.
Q: Can I use Briza Media in cut flower arrangements?
A: Yes, Briza Media makes a lovely addition to cut flower arrangements. Its delicate seed heads add texture and movement to floral designs.
Related Plants
– Stipa tenuissima (Mexican feather grass)- Pennisetum alopecuroides (fountain grass)- Panicum virgatum (switchgrass)- Miscanthus sinensis (maiden grass)- Calamagrostis brachytricha (Korean feather reed grass)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Briza media. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280364&isprofile=0&- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Briza media. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/22674/i-briza-media-i/details
