Slender Spikegrass (Chasmanthium laxum) is an elegant native grass with airy, nodding flower clusters, ideal for naturalistic landscapes and erosion control.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Too much shade can reduce flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; drought-tolerant once established.
Loam, Sandy, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Tolerates a range of temperatures once established.
Low
25% intensity
Light feeding in spring is usually sufficient. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Slender Spikegrass regularly during its establishment phase, especially in dry periods. Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, but avoid prolonged drought.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Prune Slender Spikegrass in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the previous year's dried foliage and flower stalks to about 5-10 cm above the ground.
This tidies the plant and encourages vigorous new growth for the season.
Slender Spikegrass is easily propagated by division or seed. Divide established clumps in early spring or fall. Sow seeds outdoors in the fall or stratify them indoors before sowing in spring.
It can also self-seed readily in suitable conditions.
Repotting is typically only necessary for container-grown plants. Since Slender Spikegrass is often grown as a perennial in garden beds, repotting is infrequent.
If necessary, repot container plants in early spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Slender Spikegrass (Chasmanthium laxum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Chasmanthium |
| Species | Chasmanthium laxum |
Similar in genus Chasmanthium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
