Guinea grass
Megathyrsus maximus · Poaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant guinea grass: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen in warm climates, deciduous in temperate climates
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn (panicle inflorescences)
- Mature size
- 1.5 to 2.5 m tall, spread 1 to 1.5 m
- Growth
- Very fast
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender below 10 °C
- Origin
- West Africa (Guinea, Ivory Coast)
- Soil type
- Undemanding soils, tolerates poor and acidic conditions
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season in warm weather to keep the soil moist. In temperate climates or during winter, gradually reduce watering. This grass is fairly drought-tolerant once established, but prefers moderate moisture.
Light exposure
Plant this grass in full sun for optimal growth and maximum foliage density. It tolerates partial shade but will be less vigorous. Avoid deep shade.
Pruning and cutting
Regular mowing (every 4 to 6 weeks) maintains a compact shape and encourages production of tender young leaves. In late winter in temperate climates, cut back to 10–15 cm to remove dry parts and encourage new growth.
Soil
Guinea grass adapts to most soils, including poor and acidic ones. No complex soil preparation is needed. Adequate drainage is sufficient to prevent prolonged waterlogging.
Fertilizing and nutrition
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring to boost growth. On very poor soils, moderate nitrogen application before each mowing increases biomass production. Avoid excess nitrogen late in the season.
Diseases and pests
Rarely affected by diseases in its native regions. In humid temperate climates, watch for root rot linked to winter waterlogging. No major specific pests in typical cultivation.
Did you know?
Guinea grass has been a valuable forage crop in West Africa for centuries, renowned for its exceptional productivity and palatability to livestock. It has significantly improved agricultural yields in tropical and subtropical zones thanks to its ability to quickly colonize marginal soils.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Tufted hair grassDeschampsia cespitosa
- Wavy hair-grassAvenella flexuosa
- Purple moor-grassMolinia caerulea
- Reed canary-grassPhalaris arundinacea
- Common quaking grassBriza media
- Creeping soft-grassHolcus mollis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.