Perennial Quakinggrass: The Dancing Grass That Brings Movement to Your Garden
If you’ve ever wanted to add a touch of whimsical movement to your garden, perennial quakinggrass (Briza media) might just be the plant you’re looking for. This charming ornamental grass gets its name from the way its delicate seed heads quiver and dance with even the gentlest breeze, creating an almost magical effect in the landscape.
What Makes Perennial Quakinggrass Special
Perennial quakinggrass is beloved by gardeners for its distinctive heart-shaped seed heads that seem to flutter like tiny lanterns suspended on slender stems. These papery, translucent panicles start out green in early summer and gradually transform to a beautiful golden-bronze color as they mature, providing multi-season interest in the garden.
Native Status and Geographic Distribution
It’s important to note that perennial quakinggrass is not native to North America. Originally from Europe and temperate Asia, this species has been introduced and now grows wild in many states including Alabama, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont. It’s also found in the Canadian provinces of Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Newfoundland.
While this grass has naturalized in many areas and reproduces on its own in the wild, it’s currently not classified as invasive or noxious in most regions.
Garden Applications and Design Ideas
Perennial quakinggrass shines in several garden settings:
- Cottage gardens where its informal, naturalized appearance fits perfectly
- Perennial borders as a textural accent plant
- Naturalized meadow gardens for added movement
- Ornamental grass gardens alongside other decorative grasses
- Mass plantings for dramatic textural contrast
The plant works wonderfully as both an accent specimen and in larger drifts, where the collective movement of multiple plants creates an even more striking effect.
Growing Conditions and Care
One of the best things about perennial quakinggrass is how easy it is to grow. This adaptable plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4-9 and tolerates a wide range of conditions:
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-draining soil; tolerates poor soils once established
- Water: Moderate moisture needs; drought tolerant when established
- Maintenance: Low maintenance once established
According to wetland status data, this grass can occur in both wetlands and non-wetlands across most regions, though it typically prefers non-wetland conditions in coastal areas.
Planting and Care Tips
Getting started with perennial quakinggrass is straightforward:
- Easy to grow from seed sown in spring or fall
- Self-sows readily, so expect new plants to appear nearby
- Cut back old growth in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigor
- Generally pest and disease free
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
As a wind-pollinated grass, perennial quakinggrass doesn’t offer significant nectar or pollen resources for pollinators. However, the seed heads do provide food for seed-eating birds, and the grass structure can offer some shelter for small wildlife.
Should You Plant It?
Perennial quakinggrass can be a delightful addition to the right garden setting, especially if you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds movement and texture. However, since it’s not native to North America, you might also consider native grass alternatives that provide similar ornamental value while supporting local ecosystems.
Some native grass alternatives to consider include little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), buffalo grass (Poaceae family natives), or regional native bunch grasses that offer similar textural interest and movement in the landscape.
If you do choose to grow perennial quakinggrass, be mindful that it self-sows readily and may spread beyond where you originally planted it. Regular maintenance and deadheading can help keep it contained if desired.
