Also known as Common Quaking Grass · Intermediate Quaking Grass · Perennial Quaking Grass
Briza media, commonly known as Perennial Quakinggrass, is an ornamental grass prized for its delicate, pendulous flower spikelets that tremble in the slightest breeze.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering. Can tolerate partial shade, but may become less vigorous and produce fewer flower heads.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency. Tolerant of dry periods but thrives with occasional watering. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained, sandy, clay, loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in most temperate climates. Tolerates a range of temperatures but thrives in moderate conditions. Protect from extreme heat and frost if necessary.
Low
25% intensity
Requires minimal fertilization. A light feeding in spring with a balanced fertilizer is usually sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can weaken the plant.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during establishment and dry periods. Once established, Perennial Quakinggrass is drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially in warmer months.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Prune after flowering to tidy the plant and prevent self-seeding. Cut back the faded flower stalks and foliage to the base of the plant.
This encourages a neat appearance and can promote a denser clump in the following season. Remove any dead or damaged material at any time.
Propagate by division in spring or early autumn. Carefully lift the established clumps and divide them into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots and shoots.
Replant divisions immediately into well-draining soil. Sow seeds in autumn or early spring in a cool, moist seedbed.
Repotting is typically not required for ornamental grasses grown in the ground. If grown in containers, repot when the plant becomes root-bound, usually every 2-3 years.
Spring is the ideal time to repot, moving the plant to a slightly larger container 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 Perennial Quakinggrass (Briza media)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Briza |
| Species | Briza media |
Similar in genus Briza
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
