No images found for this plant ID: 6327.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "6327" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
little quakinggrass
Scientific Name: Briza minor
Family: Poaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Graminoid
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Little Quaking Grass (Briza minor)
Briza minor, commonly known as lesser quaking-grass or little quakinggrass, is an annual grass that adds delicate beauty to various landscapes.
Considerations for Children
- The text mentions that children find the seedheads of quaking grass appealing ("Kids love").
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Briza minor L.
- Common Names: Lesser quaking-grass, little quakinggrass, quaking grass, shivery grass, small quaking grass. Also sometimes referred to as little fairy bells.
- Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
- Tribe: Poeae
- Synonyms: Briza gracilis, Briza minima
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the Mediterranean Basin, Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia.
- Widely introduced in southern and western North America.
- Prefers grassland habitats, especially moist areas.
Ecological Role
- Designated as an invasive species in some regions.
Morphology and Growth Habits
- Annual grass.
- Plant size: Up to 6 inches tall, though some grow up to 18 inches.
- Floret size: 3 to 4 mm.
- Features pendulous, heart-shaped spikelets (containing the flowers), which are green and purple. These spikelets are distinctive and shake in the wind.
Quirky Facts
- The distinctive heart-shaped spikelets look a little like miniature hops.
Further Information
- USDA PLANTS Database: Symbol BRMI2.
- Plants of Hawaii: Provides images and information.
- Michigan State University’s Department of Horticulture Plant Encyclopedia: Offers plant information relevant to the mid-west United States.