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Stinkgrass

Eragrostis cilianensis · Poaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant stinkgrass: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
July to September
Adult size
60 to 90 cm tall
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Annual, frost-sensitive
Origin
Mediterranean and steppe regions
Soil type
Well-draining, tolerates poor soils

Care

Watering

Eragrostis appreciates moderate but regular watering during the growing period, particularly in the first few weeks after planting. Once established, it tolerates drought well and requires little water. Avoid excess moisture, especially in winter, which promotes rot.

Exposure

Plant tall eragrostis in full sun to achieve a dense silhouette and beautiful flowering. It can tolerate light shade, but growth will be less vigorous. A location sheltered from intense wind is preferable to preserve the elegance of the panicles.

Soil

This grass accommodates poor, rocky or sandy soils. Excellent drainage is essential: improve heavy soils with sand or gravel. It doesn't need rich organic soil and thrives even in difficult conditions.

Fertilizer

No fertilizer is necessary. This hardy grass is content with poor soils. Excess nitrogen would promote weak growth and compromise the plant's architecture.

Pruning and cleanup

In late winter or early spring, cut the dried stems to ground level before new growth appears. You can leave the dried panicles in place throughout winter for ornamental interest and to protect the heart of the plant.

Diseases and pests

Eragrostis is rarely affected by diseases. Good drainage and sufficient aeration prevent fungal rots. No specific treatment is generally necessary under appropriate conditions.

Did you know?

Tall eragrostis is an ephemeral grass appreciated by craftspeople and florists for its light, undulating panicles, ideal for dried or fresh bouquets. Its name 'cilianensis' evokes the region of Cilicia (present-day Turkey), although the plant has naturalized throughout the Mediterranean. It's one of the rare annual grasses that combines elegance with resilience in dry gardens.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.