Sweet vernal grass Anthoxanthum odoratum
ABOUT
Anthoxanthum odoratum, commonly known as sweet vernal grass, is a perennial plant with a tufted habit, meaning it grows in small, dense clumps. Its leaves are slender and slightly rough to the touch due to fine ridges that run lengthwise. The foliage of sweet vernal grass can be characterized by its bright green color that may turn to yellow or brown as the seasons change. The most distinctive feature of the sweet vernal grass is its inflorescence, which is the flower-bearing part of the plant. The inflorescence is a dense, spike-like cluster that appears at the top of its stems, tapering towards the apex. When the plant is in bloom, these flower spikes may have a slightly purplish tint, and they bear tiny, yellowish-brown flowers that are not particularly showy. It's worth noting that the sweet vernal grass is beloved for its sweet, coumarin-rich fragrance, which is especially pronounced when the grass is cut or crushed. The sweet vernal grass also produces a compact fruit, which is concealed within the dry husks of the flowers after they have been pollinated. As the plant matures, the flowering stems can become more erect and may carry the fruits until they are dispersed. Though explicitly excluding the size of the plant as per the request, it's typical for sweet vernal grass to display these characteristics within the general confines of its non-mentioned growth habit. Overall, its visual appeal is mostly found in its neat, tufted presentation and its pleasant aroma when disturbed.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Poaceae.
Synonyms
Sweet Vernal Grass, Holy Grass, Vanilla Grass, Buffalo Grass.
Common names
Anthoxanthum alpinum, Anthoxanthum asperum, Anthoxanthum aristatum, Anthoxanthum ovatum, Anthoxanthum puellii, Anthoxanthum sierrae, Anthoxanthum sordidum, Anthoxanthum subhirsutum, Anthoxanthum sylvaticum, Hierochloe odorata.
ToxicityTo humans
Sweet vernal grass is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, handling or ingestion can sometimes cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Symptoms of such an allergy could include sneezing, asthma, or hay fever-like symptoms, as a result of exposure to its pollen.
To pets
Sweet vernal grass is not known to be toxic to pets. However, as with humans, pets with a particular sensitivity to grasses might experience allergic reactions. Ingesting this grass in large quantities may potentially cause digestive upset due to the bulk of plant material, but it does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause poisoning in pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Green
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Eurasia
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion control: Anthoxanthum odoratum, commonly known as sweet vernal grass, has a widespread root system that helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Livestock fodder: It is used as fodder for livestock, especially for grazing in pastures during the spring season when the grass is young and tender.
- Habitat for wildlife: Sweet vernal grass provides a natural habitat for various species of wildlife, including insects and small mammals, which use it for shelter and food.
- Soil improvement: As a perennial grass, it contributes to soil health by maintaining a perennial root system that can improve soil structure and nutrient cycling.
- Fragrance: Sweet vernal grass is known for its sweet, pleasant fragrance, especially when the leaves are freshly cut or crushed, which is valued for the scenting of homes and gardens.
- Landscape aesthetics: With its fine foliage and attractive green to greenish-yellow color, it is often used in landscaping and garden designs for aesthetic purposes.
- Pasture improvement: Sweet vernal grass can be mixed with other pasture species to improve the overall quality and diversity of the pasture.
Medical Properties- Anthoxanthum odoratum does not have well-documented medical uses in modern herbal medicine or pharmacology.
- In historical folk medicine, the plant was sometimes used for its aromatic properties and was believed to be able to freshen the air, but these uses are not recognized in contemporary medical literature.
- There are no widely acknowledged pharmaceutical applications or scientifically proven health benefits of Anthoxanthum odoratum, which limits its relevance to traditional remedies rather than evidence-based medicine.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Anthoxanthum odoratum, commonly known as sweet vernal grass, has been traditionally used to impart scent to linen chests and wardrobes. Its pleasant aroma helped to freshen clothing and repel pests.
- The grass is sometimes included in herbal pillows can be placed under pillowcases to induce a restful sleep with its sweet smell.
- Sweet vernal grass has been used as a natural flavoring agent in the production of certain alcoholic beverages, such as the Scandinavian spirit Aquavit, for its aromatic properties.
- Due to its coumarin content, the dried grass is sometimes included in potpourris as a fragrant component that releases a sweet, fresh aroma in the home.
- The grass has been historically used in folk customs, incorporated into small amulets or tokens given during festivals or as symbols of affection, relying on its pleasant scent to convey a message.
- In some regions, sweet vernal grass was used as floor covering in churches and homes to provide a pleasant scent when walked upon.
- Because of its attractive scent, the essential oil derived from sweet vernal grass is occasionally utilized in the making of natural perfumes and scented oils.
- In the craft of homemade papermaking, dried strands of this grass might be added to paper pulp to create decorative paper with a natural scent.
- Artisanal bakers have used sweet vernal grass to infuse a unique fragrance into artisan breads through the use of its dried leaves.
- In small quantities, sweet vernal grass has been used as a natural ingredient in crafting eco-friendly dyes for textiles, utilizing its natural colorants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sweet Vernal Grass is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sweet Vernal Grass is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Peace: Sweet Vernal Grass, or Anthoxanthum odoratum, often symbolizes peace due to its gentle appearance and the soft, sweet scent it releases when new growth is crushed or cut, reminding people of tranquil and serene landscapes.
- Tranquility: The plant is also a symbol of tranquility, as the scent has a calming effect on the senses, evoking a sense of quiet and peacefulness.
- Nostalgia: Sweet Vernal Grass can evoke nostalgia, as it is often associated with the smell of fresh hay and rural country sides, reminding people of their past or childhood memories spent in natural settings.
- Permanence: The durability and the perennial nature of Sweet Vernal Grass also symbolize permanence or eternity, as it returns reliably year after year.
- Resurrection and New Beginnings: Since the grass rejuvenates each spring, it represents resurrection and new beginnings, similar to many other plants that herald the spring season.
WaterSweet Vernal Grass prefers consistent moisture, so water thoroughly to saturate the root zone whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In temperate climates, this will roughly translate to watering about once a week, but frequency should be increased during hot, dry periods. As a rule of thumb, provide approximately 1 to 2 gallons per square yard every week during the growing season. During the winter dormancy period, reduce watering but do not let the soil completely dry out. Monitor the plant and the weather conditions to adjust your watering schedule as needed.
LightSweet Vernal Grass thrives best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It should be placed in a location where it will receive at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid deep shade locations as it will not promote healthy growth for the plant.
TemperatureSweet Vernal Grass generally prefers temperate conditions and will grow in a wide range of temperatures but thrives best between 50 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 40 degrees Fahrenheit and upper extremes of about 90 degrees Fahrenheit. For optimal growth, maintain the temperature within this ideal range as much as possible.
PruningPruning Sweet Vernal Grass is done mainly to remove old foliage and to maintain plant shape. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cutting back the grass to about 4 inches will encourage fresh, healthy growth. Prune annually or as needed when the plant appears overgrown or unkempt.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSweet vernal grass prefers moderately fertile, well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A mix containing loam, peat, and sand in equal parts works well to maintain balance in moisture and nutrients.
RepottingSweet vernal grass rarely needs repotting as it is usually grown as an annual or left outdoors; if grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years.
Humidity & MistingSweet vernal grass thrives best in average humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments; it does not require high humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow sweet vernal grass in well-lit area with well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant sweet vernal grass in full sun to partial shade in spring.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleSweet vernal grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum) begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in the early spring when soil temperatures and moisture are conducive to growth. The seedlings quickly establish a root system and a basal rosette of leaves. The plant proceeds to its vegetative growth stage, developing elongated stems and leaves, and becoming a perennial grass. During late spring to early summer, sweet vernal grass enters the reproductive stage, producing a flowering stalk with spikelets that contain the flowers. Upon maturation, these flowers are pollinated by wind, leading to the production of seeds contained within the spikelets. The plant then sets seed and may go dormant during periods of stress, like drought or the onset of winter, with its survival ensured by the new seeds that can germinate with the return of favorable conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Anthoxanthum odoratum, commonly known as sweet vernal grass, is typically propagated through seed sowing. The most popular method involves scattering seeds directly onto a prepared soil surface, ideally during the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and moisture is more likely to be consistent. After broadcasting the seeds, it is beneficial to lightly rake the area to ensure that they make good contact with the soil without burying them too deeply; a shallow insertion of about 1/4 inch (6.35 millimeters) is usually recommended. It is crucial to keep the seeded area moist to facilitate germination, which may occur within 2 to 3 weeks under optimal conditions. Once established, sweet vernal grass can spread through its rhizomes, a natural form of vegetative reproduction.
