Johnson Grass
Sorghum halepense
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Pl. 7EA7 — Sorghum halepense
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IOverview
Overview
Johnson Grass (Sorghum halepense) is a perennial graminoid native to regions including Afghanistan, Algeria, and Egypt. It has spread widely across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, thriving in various habitats such as dry and moist soils with light, medium, or heavy clay content. This plant reaches heights of up to 2 meters and is known for its edible parts, specifically its seeds, which can be used for food. Johnson Grass is adaptable, growing well in soil pH ranges from 5 to 7 and hardiness zones 7-10. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to grow in diverse environments, making it a notable presence in agricultural landscapes and natural areas alike.
Quick answers
What is Johnson Grass?
Johnson Grass (Sorghum halepense) is a perennial graminoid native to regions including Afghanistan, Algeria, and Egypt. It has spread widely across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, thriving in various habitats such as dry and moist soils with light, medium, or heavy clay content.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Johnson Grass thrives in light to medium soil and prefers a pH between 5 and 7. It can tolerate dry to moist conditions but needs well-drained soil to prevent root rot. This perennial plant is hardy in temperate regions (zones 7-10) and grows up to 2 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the site receives plenty of light, as it has a light requirement of 8/10. Propagate through seed for edible parts. Skip irrigation during dry spells but provide moisture when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Graminoid
Mature size
2.0 m tall
Soil pH
5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Johnson Grass for the first time
8steps
Johnson Grass is a hardy perennial that can be challenging for beginners, but with the right care, it can thrive in your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A packet of Johnson Grass seeds or small plants, a trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Johnson Grass in early spring or late summer for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 5 and 7. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 30 cm (12 inches).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 2-3 cm (1 inch) deep, spacing them about 30 cm (12 inches) apart. For transplants, space plants 60 cm (24 inches) apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist during germination. Water regularly to maintain moisture but avoid overwatering.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week, especially in dry periods. Fertilize with compost or well-rotted manure in early spring and midsummer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead foliage to maintain the plant's health and appearance. Harvest seeds when they turn brown.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, not providing enough space between plants, and failing to mulch properly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seed of Johnson Grass (Sorghum halepense) is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. Typically, the seeds are harvested and prepared in various ways, including boiling or roasting to make them palatable. Skip
Other uses:Biomass
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe4 regions
native (4)CyprusPortugalRussiaSpain
Asia14 regions
native (14)AfghanistanIndiaIranIraqKazakhstanKuwaitLaosMyanmarOmanPakistanPalestineSaudi ArabiaSri LankaThailand
Africa6 regions
native (6)AlgeriaCabo VerdeChadEgyptLibyaMorocco
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Gulf States, Kirgizstan, Lebanon-Syria, Nicobar Is., Transcaucasus
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 7ea7d3a8-1e97-4874-9554-4eaf68f3b574
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