Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent issues.
Also known as Bristle Pigeon Grass · Bristly Foxtail · Bur Bristle Grass
Hooked Bristlegrass (Setaria verticillata) is a widespread annual grass known for its bristly seed heads that readily attach to clothing and fur, aiding in seed dispersal
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures typical of spring and summer. Sensitive to frost.
Low
25% intensity
Requires minimal fertilization. Feed lightly during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent issues.
Pruning is generally not required for aesthetic purposes, as it's an annual grass. If removing spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding or for tidiness, use clean shears.
Cut stems back to the base of the plant as needed, typically in late autumn.
Propagation is primarily through seed. Sow seeds directly outdoors in spring after the last frost, or start them indoors a few weeks prior. Seeds germinate readily in warm, moist soil.
This grass is known for its prolific self-seeding.
Repotting is not typically necessary as Setaria verticillata is an annual grass that completes its life cycle in one season. If grown in a container and desired to be kept for another year (which is uncommon), a repot in spring might be considered into a slightly larger pot with fresh potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Hooked Bristlegrass (Setaria verticillata)
Where Hooked Bristlegrass (Setaria verticillata) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Setaria |
| Species | Setaria verticillata |
Similar in genus Setaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data