Smilograss Oryzopsis miliacea
ABOUT
The plant known as millet ricegrass features narrow, arching leaves that are a vibrant green color. These leaves typically have a fine texture, which creates a soft, feathery appearance overall. During the bloom period, the plant produces delicate, airy seed heads that appear as a haze of lighter color above the foliage. The seed heads are typically a silver to pale green color and have a very graceful, nodding quality to them as they rise above the foliage in a loose, open formation. The overall impression of millet ricegrass is one of a gentle, flowing plant with a subtle beauty that comes from both its foliage and its attractive seed heads.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Smilo Grass, Ricegrass, Millet Ricegrass, Milium Millet.
Common names
Piptatherum miliaceum, Oryzopsis miliacea var. asperifolia, Oryzopsis miliacea var. thomae, Milium miliaceum, Piptatherum milliaceum.
ToxicityTo humans
Oryzopsis miliacea, commonly known as Millet grass, is not generally recognized as a toxic plant to humans. There is limited information on the toxicity of Millet grass to humans, and it is not typically associated with poisoning when touched or ingested. However, as with any plant material, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, and consuming plants not known to be edible should be done with caution. If a person were to eat Millet grass and experience adverse effects, it would be best to consult a healthcare professional.
To pets
Oryzopsis miliacea, known as Millet grass, does not have a known toxic effect on pets. There is limited information indicating that Millet grass is poisonous to animals. However, each pet may have individual sensitivities, and ingestion of non-food plants can sometimes cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested Millet grass and is showing adverse symptoms, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
2 feet [0.61 meters]
Spread
1 foot [0.30 meters]
Plant type
Herb
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion Control: Oryzopsis miliacea, commonly known as smilo grass, has a robust root system that helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Habitat for Wildlife: It provides shelter and food for a variety of wildlife, including insects, birds, and small mammals.
- Drought Resistance: Smilo grass is well adapted to dry conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and in regions with low rainfall.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for natural landscaping.
- Ornamental Value: Smilo grass has an attractive appearance with its fine leaves and airy flower panicles, enhancing the aesthetic of gardens and natural spaces.
- Livestock Forage: It can be used as forage for livestock, providing a source of food for animals in pasture systems.
- Soil Improvement: Through its growth, smilo grass can improve soil structure and increase organic matter content.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Oryzopsis miliacea, also known as Smilo grass, can be used as a natural dye source, providing a range of subtle colors for textile crafting.
- It serves as erosion control on slopes and banks due to its extensive root system that helps stabilize soil.
- Smilo grass seeds are used in bird feed mixes, providing a natural and nutritious food source for wild birds.
- The plant can be woven into mats and baskets due to the strength and pliability of its leaves.
- Its dried stems can be used in floral arrangements and as decorative elements in crafts and home decor.
- Oryzopsis miliacea straw can be used as thatching material for traditional roofs in some rural areas.
- The grass is suitable for biofuel production because it can be turned into biomass pellets or briquettes.
- As an ornamental grass, Smilo grass is planted in gardens and public landscapes for its aesthetic value, especially in xeriscaping.
- When left to grow naturally, it can serve as a habitat for local wildlife, offering nesting material and shelter for small animals and insects.
- Its dense foliage can be used as a sound barrier, reducing noise pollution in urban and suburban settings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Oryzopsis miliacea, more commonly known as Millet Grass, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Millet Grass is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Oryzopsis miliacea, more commonly known as Smilo Grass, often grows in tough, challenging environments, symbolizing the ability to withstand hardships and bounce back.
- Adaptability: Smilo Grass can adapt to a variety of soil conditions, which signifies versatility and the ability to thrive in different circumstances.
- Growth: As a grass species, it embodies growth and the natural progression of life cycles, representing personal development and the continuation of life.
- Simplicity: Grasses like Smilo Grass tend to symbolize simplicity and humility due to their unassuming appearance and commonality in nature.
WaterMountain rice grass, also known as Oryzopsis miliacea, prefers consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This usually means watering approximately once a week, depending on the climate and soil drainage, with roughly half a gallon per square foot of soil surface area. During the hot, dry periods, you might need to water twice a week, while cooler, damp weather may require less frequent watering. It’s important not to overwater, as standing water can lead to root rot.
LightMountain rice grass thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is an area that receives at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in extremely hot climates. Avoid deep shade since insufficient light can lead to weak, spindly growth.
TemperatureMountain rice grass is hardy and can tolerate a temperature range from as low as 20°F to around 90°F. The ideal temperature range for healthy growth is between 60°F and 75°F. Extreme temperatures on either end of the spectrum can stress the plant, but it is generally resistant to brief periods of frost or heat.
PruningPruning mountain rice grass is mainly about maintaining its size and shape, as well as removing any dead or damaged foliage. It's best to prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Prune back up to one-third of the plant to encourage healthy new shoots. Regular trimming isn’t necessary throughout the growing season unless you are shaping the plant or removing dead leaves.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMountain ricegrass prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A good soil mix for this plant would consist of loam or sandy loam, enriched with organic matter such as compost or peat moss, to provide a balance of drainage and water retention.
RepottingMountain ricegrass typically does not require frequent repotting; it can be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil. Ensure to use the appropriate soil mix and a pot with good drainage when repotting.
Humidity & MistingMountain ricegrass thrives in average room humidity conditions; it does not require high humidity. Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% is suitable for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light and water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Grow in partial shade and water regularly to maintain moist soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleOryzopsis miliacea, commonly known as smilograss, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in moist soil under favorable temperature and light conditions. Upon germination, it develops a seedling root system and shoots that emerge above the soil surface, followed by the formation of grass-like leaves. As the plant matures, it develops tillers which are stems that grow upward and can produce additional leaves and roots. Smilograss then reaches the flowering stage, where it produces panicles of small, wind-pollinated flowers that are typically green or purplish. After pollination, the flowers develop into grains that mature and disperse, continuing the cycle as they become seeds that can grow into new plants the following season. The plant is perennial, so the root systems can survive over winter and regrow in successive years, depending on the climate and conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Oryzopsis miliacea, commonly known as Indian ricegrass, is typically propagated through seeds since it is a grass species. The best time for sowing the seeds is in the spring after the last frost has passed, when the soil temperature has warmed sufficiently to promote germination. This ensures the seedlings will have a full growing season to establish themselves. To propagate Indian ricegrass, you would first harvest the seeds, which may necessitate drying and threshing to remove the chaff. Then, broadcast seeding is often employed, where seeds are scattered over a prepared seedbed and lightly raked in to ensure seed-to-soil contact, or drill seeding, where a seed drill is used to plant the seeds at the right depth. Watering is essential immediately after sowing to support germination, and subsequent watering should be moderated to provide a moist but not saturated environment. With Indian ricegrass, no special treatment of the seeds is usually required for germination.
