Also known as Crinkle-Awn · Giant Speargrass · Grey Tussockgrass
Trachypogon spicatus, or spiked crinkleawn, is a perennial grass known for its bristly seed heads. It's a resilient species often found in grasslands and savannas.
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; reduce in winter.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter if kept dry.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer; 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 |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water deeply and regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter, especially for dormant plants.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, as this grass dislikes waterlogged conditions.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Cut back old, dead foliage to about 10-15 cm from the ground. This encourages vigorous new growth and maintains a tidy appearance.
Remove any diseased or damaged stems as needed throughout the year.
Propagation is typically done by dividing established clumps in spring. Carefully dig up the plant and separate sections with healthy roots and shoots. Replant divisions immediately into well-draining soil.
Seeds can be sown in autumn or early spring under glass.
Trachypogon spicatus is a perennial grass that doesn't typically require frequent repotting when grown outdoors. If grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years in spring, using a larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix, to prevent root binding and ensure continued healthy growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Spiked Crinkleawn (Trachypogon spicatus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Trachypogon |
| Species | Trachypogon spicatus |
Similar in genus Trachypogon
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
