Greater quaking grass, Briza maxima, is one of the best-known annual grasses and a great favourite with flower-arrangers. It bears graceful, nodding heads of subtly coloured flowers, which are segmented and shaped like a small lantern. In the garden these nod gently in the breeze and remain decorative for some time before shedding their seeds, and they make the perfect foil for a range of flowers both in the garden and the vase.
Best grown in groups for maximum impact, sow Briza maxima in situ in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Harvest the flower stems to use in dried flower arrangements throughout winter, and save seed for use the following year. Learn more in our Ornamental grass grow guide.
