Basketgrass: A Tropical Ground Cover Grass Worth Considering
If you’re looking for a low-growing grass that thrives in shady spots where other grasses struggle, basketgrass (Oplismenus hirtellus hirtellus) might catch your eye. This perennial grass has quietly made itself at home in tropical gardens, though it comes with some considerations every gardener should know about.
What is Basketgrass?
Basketgrass is a fine-textured, mat-forming grass that belongs to the same family as corn and bamboo. Despite its delicate appearance, this perennial grass is surprisingly resilient and adaptable. You might also see it listed under various botanical synonyms like Panicum hirtellum or Oplismenus burmanni in older gardening references.
Where Does Basketgrass Come From?
Originally native to Puerto Rico and other Caribbean islands, basketgrass has found its way to Hawaii, where it now grows and reproduces on its own in the wild. This means it’s considered a non-native species in Hawaii, though it doesn’t appear on current invasive species lists.
Should You Plant Basketgrass in Your Garden?
The answer depends on your location and gardening goals. Here are the key considerations:
- Climate requirements: This grass only thrives in USDA zones 10-11, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical regions
- Shade tolerance: Unlike many grasses that demand full sun, basketgrass actually prefers shaded areas
- Spreading habit: It forms dense mats through vegetative spread, which can be great for erosion control but may require management
Aesthetic Appeal and Garden Role
Basketgrass offers a soft, fine-textured look that works well as a living carpet in shaded garden areas. Its low-growing, mat-forming habit makes it useful for:
- Ground cover in tropical shade gardens
- Erosion control on gentle slopes
- Understory planting beneath larger plants
- Areas where traditional turf grasses won’t grow
Growing Conditions and Care
If you decide to grow basketgrass, here’s what it needs to thrive:
- Light: Partial to full shade (this is where it really shines!)
- Soil: Moist, well-draining soils work best
- Water: Regular moisture, but avoid waterlogged conditions
- Climate: Warm temperatures year-round; won’t survive frost
Planting and Maintenance Tips
Basketgrass is refreshingly low-maintenance once established. Here’s how to get started:
- Plant during warm months when growth is most active
- Space plantings to allow for natural spreading
- Water regularly during establishment, then reduce as the grass matures
- Monitor spread and trim edges if needed to keep it contained
- No fertilizer typically needed in most soils
Wildlife and Pollinator Considerations
As a wind-pollinated grass, basketgrass doesn’t offer significant benefits to pollinators like bees and butterflies. However, some grass species can provide nesting materials and seeds for certain wildlife species.
Native Alternatives to Consider
Since basketgrass isn’t native to most areas where it’s grown, you might want to explore native grass alternatives that provide similar benefits:
- For Hawaii: Consider native sedges or indigenous grass species
- For other tropical regions: Research native ground-covering grasses in your area
- Consult local native plant societies for region-specific recommendations
The Bottom Line
Basketgrass can be a useful addition to tropical shade gardens, especially for erosion control and ground cover where other options fail. While it’s not native to most areas where it’s cultivated, it doesn’t currently appear on invasive species lists. However, its spreading nature means you’ll want to plant it thoughtfully and monitor its growth. As always, consider native alternatives first – they’re often better adapted to local conditions and provide more benefits to local wildlife.
Whether you choose basketgrass or a native alternative, the key is selecting plants that match your specific growing conditions and garden goals. Happy gardening!
