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Xerophyllum tenax

Xerophyllum tenax

Product number: 609200
Origin: North America
Latin: Xerophyllum tenax

This plant owes its name to its tough, grass-like leaves, which grow from a small, stem-like base and twist their way up to 1 m long! From this playful base, in stark contrast, emerge thick stems (100-150 cm long) with a dense cluster of hundreds of white flowers at the top, spreading a delightful (albeit subtle) fragrance. The plant grows wild in North-West America and plays an important role there because its roots are extremely fire-resistant, allowing Beargrass to be the first to regrow. Especially in the past, it was a very popular fiber among the Native Americans due to its great durability, even allowing for waterproof weaving!

Names:
Latin: Xerophyllum tenax
Dutch: Berengras
Also: Berengras
English: Bear Grass, Squaw Grass, Soap Grass, Quip-Quip, Indian Basket Grass

Sowing method: Sow in a seed tray, first provide warmth for 2-4 weeks (18-22°C), then a cold period in, for example, the refrigerator (+4°C) for 4-6 weeks, then gradually warm up to room temperature, after which germination will follow. Sowing directly in the ground is also an option; just let winter pass over it, and germination will occur in spring.

Sowing/planting time:

March
April
May

Harvesting time:

Not applicable / Not available

Soil type:

All soil types

Cultivation location:

Indoors
Outdoors

Position:

Sun
Partial shade

Flower colour: White flowers with a light scent
Origin: North America
Average growth height: More than 120 cm
Annual or perennial: Perennial
Attractive to insects: N/A
Winter hardy: Forst hardy
Ease of cultivation: Advanced

Latin: Xerophyllum tenax
Dutch: Beargrass
Also known as: Beargrass
English: Bear Grass, Squaw Grass, Soap Grass, Quip-Quip, Indian Basket Grass