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Big quaking grass
Also known as: Great quaking grass, Pearl grass, Nodding grass, Rattlesnake grass
The drooping, lantern-like heads of big quaking grass make it more decorative than many grasses, so it is often added to flower arrangements. It comes originally from Africa and the Mediterranean basin, but is now commonly seen in most of the world. It's considered invasive in many areas and has an adverse effect on native plants in parts of the U.S. and Australia, as well as other countries.
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Fall
Harvest Time
10 cm to 70 cm
Plant Height
60 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
1 cm to 5 cm
Flower Size
Yellow, Green
Flower Color
Green, Yellow
Stem Color
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Moderate
Growth Rate

Images of Big quaking grass

Distribution of Big quaking grass

Distribution Map
The plant big quaking grass exhibits a widespread geographical presence, being native to the Mediterranean basin and parts of southwestern Europe. It has been introduced across various continents including Asia, Africa, and the Americas, due to its cultivation or incidental spread. While big quaking grass is cultivated in certain areas for its ornamental value, it may have an impact on local ecosystems when growing outside its natural range, especially in regions like Oceania and parts of Central and South America, where it is sometimes thought to be invasive. The degree of its impact in non-native regions, however, often varies and is subject to ongoing examination.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Grass- and healthland, forests, riparian habitats, coastal beaches, hillslopes, coastal scrub, disturbed sites
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Symbolism
Psychic powers, Protection. It symbolizes food, concealment and hardiness.
Interesting Facts
Big quaking grass has been introduced to many countries, but it became weed in many areas, particularly in Australia and parts of the US, having an adverse effect on domestic flora.
Name Story
Big quaking grass||Big quakinggrass||Greater quaking grass||Great quaking grass||Large quaking grass||Quackinggrass big: Briza maxima is known by many names, but most of the names were derived from the look and movement of its flowerheads. The flowers, together with the seedheads, move at the slightest breeze, and that's why this grass is called big quaking grass.
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Quickly Identify Big quaking grass

1
Distinctive reddish-brown to tan hue seed heads with scale-like seeds
2
Leaves with parallel veins, reaching up to 16 feet (4.88 meters) in length
3
Fruit enclosed in lightweight, papery utricle with variable coloration
4
Thrives in less fertile soil, larger than related species, used in dried floral arrangements
5
Seed head structure features open, puffy formations of overlapping seeds
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Care Guide for Big quaking grass

Every week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Big quaking grass prefers a grassland-like environment with moderate moisture, thriving with weekly watering. Its resilience and graceful movement make it a popular outdoor ornamental choice, particularly in gardens that experience regular rain.
Fertilize: Big quaking grass thrives with balanced, slow-release fertilizers during spring and high-nitrogen options for foliage. Apply quarterly, avoiding over-fertilization to protect blooms. As seasons change, adjust frequency and nutrient mix. Dilute fertilizer to half strength to prevent root burn.
Pruning: Big quaking grass showcases delicate, nodding seed heads for ornamental appeal. Prune in early to late spring by removing damaged stems to encourage new growth. Deadheading spent flowers prevents self-seeding and maintains tidiness. Timely pruning boosts vigor and extends the grass's decorative life.
Propagation: Big quaking grass thrives when propagated by sowing in well-draining soil. Place seeds on the surface to receive light; press lightly without covering. Maintain slight moisture until germination in 2-3 weeks, and choose a sunny, well-ventilated area for strong growth.
Repotting: Big quaking grass requires excellent drainage when planted in pots to thrive effectively.
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