SafePlants

Agrostis nebulosa: Cloud Grass, Fibre Optic Grass

Agrostis nebulosa, commonly known as Cloud Grass or Fibre Optic Grass, is an ornamental grass prized for its delicate and airy seed heads. It's a favorite among florists and flower arrangers.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant produces seed heads that some might consider small parts, which could pose a potential choking hazard if ingested.

Considerations for Children

• This plant produces seed heads that some might consider small parts, which could pose a potential choking hazard if ingested.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Agrostis nebulosa Boiss. & Reut.
• Common Names: Cloud Grass, Fibre Optic Grass
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
• Kingdom: Magnoliophyta
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonym: Neoschischkinia nebulosa (Boiss.)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Portugal and Spain.
• Prefers a warm and sunny location.

Morphological Characteristics

• An upright, annual grass.
• Typically grows to a height of 30-50 cm (approximately 1-1.5 feet).
• Features slender, upright, linear, bright green leaves.
• Produces airy panicles of tiny, purple-flushed, cream-colored spikelets that resemble fibre optics as they emerge.
• Culms are erect or geniculately ascending, 25-50 cm long, and 2-3 noded.
• Culm-internodes are smooth, and leaf-sheaths are scaberulous.

Ecological Role

• Self-seeds easily. Removing seedheads prevents self-seeding.

Quirky Facts

• The seed heads are said to resemble fibre optics as they emerge.
• The flowering spikes form round airy clouds.

Further Information

• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS): For help and information.
• Catalogue of New World Grasses (Poaceae): Database (version 24/11/2009).
• Dave's Garden: Community sharing tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants.
• Discover Life: Biology, natural history, ecology, identification and distribution information.