Greater Quaking Grass
Briza maxima
Also listed as Briza major, Macrobriza maxima
Also known as Great Quaking Grass, Big Quaking Grass, Large Quaking Grass
Climate Match for your location
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A delicate ornamental grass prized for its heart-shaped, papery seed heads that quiver in the slightest breeze, creating graceful movement in the garden. Easy to grow in dry conditions and excellent for fresh or dried arrangements.
Why grow it
Greater quaking grass produces larger and more prominent seed heads than smaller Briza species, making it more visible in garden compositions and arrangements. It tolerates poor, well-drained soils and performs reliably in Mediterranean and semi-arid climates with minimal water once established. The seed heads dry naturally in place, offering extended seasonal interest without intervention.
Watch out for
Seed heads can shatter and scatter readily in strong winds or when handled, which may complicate cleanup in tidy garden settings. Performance declines noticeably in humid climates or poorly drained soils, where fungal issues become more likely.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Poaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A delicate ornamental grass prized for its heart-shaped, papery seed heads that quiver in the slightest breeze, creating graceful movement in the garden. Easy to grow in dry conditions and excellent for fresh or dried arrangements.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Greater Quaking Grass grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Greater quaking grass produces larger and more prominent seed heads than smaller Briza species, making it more visible in garden compositions and arrangements. It tolerates poor, well-drained soils and performs reliably in Mediterranean and semi-arid climates with minimal water once established. The seed heads dry naturally in place, offering extended seasonal interest without intervention.
Watch out for
Seed heads can shatter and scatter readily in strong winds or when handled, which may complicate cleanup in tidy garden settings. Performance declines noticeably in humid climates or poorly drained soils, where fungal issues become more likely.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Poaceae
Native Range
Mediterranean
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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