Also known as Meadow Rice Grass · Meadow Ricegrass · Slender Rice Grass
Microlaena stipoides is a graceful, perennial grass native to Australasia, known for its weeping habit and attractive seed heads. It thrives in moist, shaded conditions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers partial to full sun.
50% intensity
Can tolerate some shade, but may become less dense.
Consistent moisture is key.
75% intensity
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures.
50% intensity
Hardy in temperate climates; may need protection in extreme cold.
Moderate feeder.
50% intensity
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water weeping-grass regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during establishment and dry periods. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings in warmer months, but maintain moisture in cooler periods.
Prune weeping-grass in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Cut back old foliage to about 5-10 cm above the ground to encourage fresh, vigorous shoots.
Remove any dead or damaged leaves throughout the year as needed.
Weeping-grass can be propagated by division or from seed. Divide established clumps in spring or autumn, ensuring each division has roots and shoots.
Sow seeds in autumn or spring in a well-drained, moist medium, keeping them cool and consistently damp.
Repotting is generally not required for established clumps of weeping-grass as it is a perennial grass. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years in spring to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth.
Use a good quality, well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Weeping-Grass (Microlaena stipoides)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| kingdom | Plantae |
| division | Tracheophyta |
| class | Liliopsida |
| order | Poales |
| family | Poaceae |
| genus | Microlaena |
| species | Microlaena stipoides |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
