SafePlants

Big Quaking Grass (Briza maxima)

Briza maxima, also known as Big Quaking Grass, is an attractive annual grass appreciated for its trembling, locket-like seedheads.

Common Names

• Big Quaking Grass
• Great Quaking Grass
• Greater Quaking-grass
• Large Quaking Grass
• Blowfly Grass
• Fairy Bells
• Giant Shivery Grass
• Lady's Heart Grass
• Large Fairy Bells
• Nodding-isabel
• Rattlesnake Grass
• Shell Grass
• Shaking Grass
• Shelly Grass

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Briza maxima L.
• Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
• Higher Taxon: Poales, Liliopsida, Magnoliophyta
• Synonym: Briza rubra

Distribution and Habitat

Briza maxima is native to Northern Africa, the Azores, Western Asia, and Southern Europe. It has also been cultivated or naturalized in other regions. It is found in natural habitats such as beaches.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Annual grass, typically growing up to 60 cm tall.
• Inflorescence consists of usually 3-8 large spikelets.
• Spikelets are secund (arranged on one side), drooping at the apex, and measure 10-25 mm.
• Glumes are hyaline and shining.

Ecological Role

Briza maxima is listed in "Invasive Species Most Unwanted," indicating that it can be invasive in certain environments.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that "kids love" the "cute quaking grass seedheads." This may suggest that the plant is attractive to children, who might be tempted to touch or play with it.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "blowfly grass" is certainly unusual!

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS Database: Symbol BRMA
• Plants of Hawaii: Images and information provided by Forest and Kim Starr.
• Wikimedia Commons: File:Big quakinggrass (Briza maxima) (4734803654).jpg
• sarracenia.com: Image of Briza maxima fruit by Barry Rice.
• Mississippi State University: Images of Briza maxima plant and flower by John D. Byrd.