Setaria parviflora
Setaria parviflora · Poaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant setaria parviflora: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Poaceae (grasses)
- Type
- Annual or perennial grass depending on climate
- Adult height
- 30 to 60 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, linear and fine
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn, compact and echinate spikes
- Hardiness
- Moderate, frost-sensitive in cold climates
- Exposure
- Full sun to partial shade
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical regions
Care
Exposure
Little Bristle Grass appreciates a sunny location for optimal growth. It tolerates partial shade but may become less vigorous. Avoid overly shaded areas that would slow down its development and form.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing period, keeping the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in autumn and winter. This grass fears prolonged drought in summer.
Soil
Prefer well-draining, light and fertile soil. A slightly acidic to neutral substrate works perfectly. Improve poor soil with compost or potting mix before planting.
Fertilizing
A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring stimulates growth. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote excessive foliage development at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Cut the grass back to ground level in late winter or early spring before growth resumes. Remove dried spikes after flowering to maintain a neat appearance. Regularly clean up dead leaves.
Diseases and pests
This grass is generally resistant to diseases. Excessive moisture can promote root rot. Occasionally check for mites or thrips in very hot and dry climates.
Did you know?
Setaria parviflora is a wild grass very common in tropical and subtropical regions, often considered a weed in crops. However, its delicate echinate spikes and fine texture make it an interesting ornamental plant for dry gardens and textured compositions, particularly prized by landscapers looking for alternative and resilient grasses.
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.