Phalaris paradoxa — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Phalaris paradoxa

Phalaris Paradoxa

Updated · 57 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Phalaris paradoxa is a species of grass in genus Phalaris. Common names include awned canary-grass and hood canarygrass.The spikelets are very different from those of other members of this genus. The spikelet glumes each have a hook. It is native to Africa, Asia, and Europe, and it has been introduced widely. Its distribution within the United States includes Arizona, California, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington.

A note from PlantMom

Gnawed canary grass is resistant to disease and typically not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding maintenance, this plant is fairly easy to care for. Planted outside, it needs only light watering, and larger specimens usually do not require pruning. Smaller specimens, however, should be trimmed after flowering. Gnawed canary grass is a good choice for anyone who has outdoor space, like a garden or a deck, and it does not demand much gardening experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Phalaris Paradoxa.

Light

Gnawed canary grass comes from sunny, open habitats and does best in full sun. It can tolerate some partial shade but favors direct sunlight to achieve optimal growth. This plant, which can be annual or biennial, is recognized for its sun-loving character.

Temperature

Gnawed canary grass has good temperature adaptability, tolerating high heat and wide temperature fluctuations. In hot weather, attention should be paid to watering and giving appropriate shade to avoid sunburn. However, Gnawed canary grass is relatively intolerant of low temperatures. While it can endure some cold, excessively low temperatures can cause frost damage.

Pruning

Canary grass benefits from occasional trimming between early and late spring to manage its growth. Removing dead or damaged stems helps maintain the plant's health, control its size, and promote denser foliage. Regular pruning also improves air circulation, which reduces the risk of pests and fungal infections, making it a more robust and attractive feature in your garden.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Grass
Life Cycle
Annual
Genus
Phalaris
Family
Poaceae
Hardiness Zone
7-10
Mature Height
30 cm to 91 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm to 40 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Semi-evergreen
Flower Size
0.51 cm to 1.02 cm
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
Mid summer, Late summer
Native Area
Libya, Egypt, Turkey, India, United Arab Emirates, Montenegro, Pakistan, Slovenia, Morocco, Croatia, Yemen, Iraq, Qatar, Portugal, France, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Cyprus, Armenia, Greece, Lebanon, Serbia, Afghanistan, Syria, Italy, Spain, Israel, Iran, Albania, Azerbaijan, Algeria, Turkmenistan
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Paradoxa grass en Paradoxical Canary grass en Awned Canary grass en Bristle-spike Canary grass en Hooded Canary grass en Variable Canary grass en Mediterranean Canary Grass en Hood canarygrass en Awned canarygrass en Paradox Canary Grass
PLATES
Phalaris paradoxa leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Phalaris paradoxa leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Phalaris paradoxa flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Phalaris paradoxa flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Phalaris paradoxa fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Phalaris paradoxa fruit
PLATE 06 · fruit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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