Overview
Melinis minutiflora is a plant with a clump-forming perennial habit in the genus Melinis, part of the Poaceae family, with linear to lanceolate leaves foliage. Melinis minutiflora grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental grass and ground cover.
About
Melinis minutiflora, commonly known as efwatakala grass or molasses grass, is a clump-forming perennial belonging to the Poaceae family. It features linear to lanceolate leaves and thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect. Best grown in fertile, well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH, this ornamental grass is suitable for use as ground cover. It is hardy to UK zone H4 and can be propagated by division or seed, with its season of interest spanning spring and summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Melinis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Melinis minutiflora size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump-forming perennial
- Foliage
- Linear to lanceolate leaves
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental grass, ground cover
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Melinis minutiflora
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-resistant
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-resistant
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Melinis minutiflora?
Melinis minutiflora prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Melinis minutiflora need?
Melinis minutiflora grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Melinis minutiflora hardy in the UK?
Melinis minutiflora has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Melinis minutiflora?
Division, seed.