Vetiver grass

Profile

Family

Gramineae

Habit

perennial

Height

1.8 m

Spread

1.5 m

Growth

fast

Lifespan

15 years

First yield

after 4 years

Hardiness

zone 9–12

Shade tolerance

partial shade

Soil

Sand, Silt, Loam

Soil moisture

very dry – near water

pH

4 – 9

Synonyms

Vetiver

Uses

Other uses: The fragrant roots are utilized in potpourri and perfumes. The essential oil extracted from these roots is employed in the production of perfumes. Due to its extensive and deeply rooted system, the plant is highly beneficial for preventing soil erosion in cultivated areas. It is commonly planted along contour lines to serve this function.

Growing

This species is sensitive to severe frosts. In regions with frequent frost, it is recommended to separate the plant in the fall, potting the divisions and keeping them in a greenhouse during winter before replanting them outdoors in late spring. Vetiveria grass is a rapidly growing grass that is not invasive, with deep roots, resistant to insects and pests. It can withstand drought and flooding, and has been observed to endure occasional temperatures as low as -9°C. Commonly cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, its extensive root system is beneficial for preventing erosion. 240

Notable

Besonderheiten: In Tropen bis 2.500m Höhe; verträgt Jahresniederschläge von 200-5.000mm; Blattschäden ab 0°C, stirbt bei unter -5°C; Akkumuliert Schwermetalle & Giftstoffe aus dem Boden, die aus der Grünmasse zurückgewonnen werden können, in diesem Falle nicht als Mulch verwenden; alle 3 Monate schneiden für bestes Tierfutter; wurzelt 2-4m tief; Kultivare blühen nicht/unfruchtbar;

Origin & habitat

Open arid areas at altitudes of up to 1000 meters in Nepal.

Wooded boundaries and undergrowth.