Poverty Grass
Corema conradii
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Pl. D99B — Corema conradii
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IOverview
Overview
Poverty Grass, scientifically known as Corema conradii, is a small shrub or subshrub native to the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. Found in habitats ranging from dry to moist areas with light sandy or medium soils, this plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. Native to Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Québec, Poverty Grass is valued for its edible fruit, making it a useful addition to gardens where space is limited. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to grow in various conditions while providing a food source, contributing to its ecological significance in the region.
Quick answers
What is Poverty Grass?
Poverty Grass, scientifically known as Corema conradii, is a small shrub or subshrub native to the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. Found in habitats ranging from dry to moist areas with light sandy or medium soils, this plant thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Poverty Grass thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to dry conditions, with a preference for light (sandy) or medium soil types. Hardy in zones 3-7, this shrub/subshrub grows up to 0.3 meters tall. For successful cultivation, ensure the soil is well-draining but keep it consistently moist during establishment. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. The fruit of Poverty Grass is edible and can be enjoyed once ripe.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
3-7
Habit
Shrub, Subshrub
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Poverty Grass for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Poverty Grass to observe its growth and adaptability.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or seeds, a pot if container gardening, well-draining soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, sandy or medium soil. Ensure good drainage for both pots and ground planting.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a small plant into your garden or pot. For seeds, sow them lightly in the soil and cover with a thin layer.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place in partial sun until established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full or partial sun, water only when dry, and prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain the shrub's size.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Poverty Grass can be eaten raw or used to make jams and jellies. It is native to northeastern regions including Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Québec.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 8 native
Broader regions
native:Massachusetts, Maine, New Jersey, New York, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward I., Québec, Masachusettes
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · d99be417-a113-4ca7-a726-a6f5412a9bb0
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