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Vetiver Grass

Vetiver Grass

Vetiveria zizanioides

A durable clumping grass that forms a strong vertical column, vetiver is renowned for erosion control. Roots can grow 10-12′ deep and are useful in slope and streambed stabilization. In fall, the fine-textured foliage blushes a beautiful purple-red and leaf tips curl like party streamers. Its fragrant roots are the source of vetiver oil used in perfume production, which has made it an important commercial plant in India for thousands of years. Tolerates coastal to desert conditions. This is a non-flowering clone. Regular to moderate water, extremely drought tolerant once established.

Native to India
Height 4-5′
Full sun to light shade
Zone 8-11 Hardy to 10 degrees F.
Excellent background grass in groups or masses; one of the best grasses for erosion control on steep slopes.