Canary Grass
Phalaris canariensis
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Pl. 9DFB — Phalaris canariensis
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IOverview
Overview
Canary Grass (Phalaris canariensis) is an annual graminoid native to Saudi Arabia and Morocco, with a notable presence in the Canary Islands. This plant thrives in moist and wet environments, making it suitable for areas with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types. It grows up to 1 meter tall and has a growing range of USDA hardiness zones 5-9. Known for its edible parts—both the leaves and seeds—are utilized, and it prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Its light requirement is moderate, making it adaptable in various habitats within its native range.
Quick answers
What is Canary Grass?
Canary Grass (Phalaris canariensis) is an annual graminoid native to Saudi Arabia and Morocco, with a notable presence in the Canary Islands. This plant thrives in moist and wet environments, making it suitable for areas with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Canary Grass thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 5.5–6.5. It is hardy in temperate regions from USDA zones 5-9. This annual plant grows up to 1 meter tall and requires plenty of light, with an energy requirement of 8/10. For cultivation, sow seeds directly into the ground or propagate by dividing established plants. Harvest leaves and seeds for edible use. Ensure consistent moisture to keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Graminoid
Mature size
1.0 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–6.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Canary Grass for the first time
7steps
Start with Canary Grass as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Canary Grass seeds or young plants, a container or garden bed, and basic gardening tools like a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Canary Grass in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your soil is well-draining with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, and prepare by loosening it to about 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in rows spaced 30-45 cm apart, or transplant young plants with care.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly in early spring with compost or organic matter.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves to maintain the plant's health and appearance throughout the growing season.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leaves and seeds of Canary Grass (Phalaris canariensis) are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are often used in various preparations, including being ground into flour for baking. Skip the detailed preparation methods as specific uses are not provided in the data.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 27 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 27 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 3 native· 27 introduced
Europe8 regions
native (1)Spain
introduced (7)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaPortugalSpain
Asia1 region
native (1)Saudi Arabia
Americas2 regions
introduced (2)BoliviaUnited States
Africa3 regions
native (1)Morocco
introduced (2)AlgeriaMorocco
Broader regions
introduced:Alabama, Baltic States, Altay, Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Argentina South, Arizona, Arkansas, Alberta, Bermuda, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, British Columbia, California, Cape Provinces
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 9dfb8c2d-119f-4b3a-829b-e3e7fd54fc44
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