Bulbous canarygrass
Phalaris aquatica · Poaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant bulbous canarygrass: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Poaceae (Grasses)
- Type
- Perennial grass
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (April-June)
- Mature size
- 0.80 to 1.20 m in height
- Hardiness
- Hardy, tolerates down to -15°C
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin and Middle East
- Growth rate
- Fast
Care
Light exposure
Bulbous canary grass thrives in direct sunlight, with a minimum of 6 hours daily. It tolerates partial shade but remains more compact and vigorous in full sun. Avoid dense shade, which slows its growth.
Watering
Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), without letting the soil dry out completely. Reduce watering in autumn and winter. Once established, it tolerates relative drought thanks to its underground bulbs.
Soil
Prefer well-drained soil, even poor or stony. Bulbous canary grass adapts to a wide range of pH levels and tolerates sandy or silty soils. Avoid prolonged waterlogging, which promotes rot.
Pruning and cutting
Remove dead or dried foliage in late winter or early spring. You can cut back the clump to 10-15 cm from the ground to encourage vigorous regrowth. Flowers are easily harvested for dried arrangements.
Fertilization
Bulbous canary grass is undemanding. A balanced fertilizer application in spring is more than sufficient. In poor soil, a light compost or organic fertilizer stimulates growth without overfeeding.
Diseases and pests
This grass is robust and seldom troubled by diseases. Watch for waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot. Pests are rare; good drainage and aeration are enough to prevent problems.
Did you know?
Bulbous canary grass has historically been used as nutritious forage for livestock in Mediterranean regions, and its tuberous roots are productive enough to justify pastoral cultivation. Its name 'bulbifera' comes precisely from the formation of small bulbs or underground tuberosities that allow it to regenerate even after intensive grazing—a remarkable adaptation to semi-arid ecosystems.
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.