Overview
Sporobolus fertilis is a bushy grass like in the genus Sporobolus, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Sporobolus fertilis grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include architectural, patio and container plants, prairie planting, city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden and gravel garden.
About
Sporobolus fertilis, commonly known as Bloomsbury grass, is a species of grass native to the Himalayas, India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, China, Japan, and Malaysia. It is an invasive species in Australia, where it is known as giant parramatta grass. In the garden it prefers full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is fully hardy throughout the UK (RHS H7). Suggested uses include architectural, patio and container plants, prairie planting, city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden and gravel garden. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil. Cut back late winter.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sporobolus fertilis
About the genus
Sporobolus is a nearly cosmopolitan genus of plants in the grass family. The name Sporobolus means "seed-thrower", and is derived from Ancient Greek word σπόρος (spóros), meaning "seed", and the root of βάλλειν (bállein) "to throw", referring to the dispersion of seeds. Members of the genus are usually called dropseeds or sacaton grasses.
Wikipedia contributors, "Sporobolus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Sporobolus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Sporobolus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Sporobolus fertilis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Patio and container plants, Prairie planting, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Sporobolus fertilis
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or by division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Sporobolus fertilis?
Sporobolus fertilis prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Sporobolus fertilis need?
Sporobolus fertilis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Sporobolus fertilis hardy in the UK?
Sporobolus fertilis has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Sporobolus fertilis?
Propagate by seed or by division.