Savannah Grass in a blue ceramic vase on a white background
Savannah Grass laying on light background.
Savannah Grass in a handmade ceramic vase on a light background.
Savannah Grass growing in the trial gardens at Baker Creek.
A garden crew member holds a couple of blooms of Savannah Grass in the trial gardens at Baker Creek.
Savannah Grass in a blue ceramic vase on a white background
Savannah Grass laying on light background.
Savannah Grass in a handmade ceramic vase on a light background.
Savannah Grass growing in the trial gardens at Baker Creek.
A garden crew member holds a couple of blooms of Savannah Grass in the trial gardens at Baker Creek.

Grass Seeds,
Savannah

41 ReviewSKU: #GS156Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Melinis nerviglumis). These triumphant plumes transform from ruby red to soft buff as they mature through the season, making for a stunning display! This ornamental grass is a very cold-tender perennial, hardy only in USDA zones 9-10, but it can be very easily grown as an annual in a wide range of climates. Plants form clumps of glaucous, blue-green foliage 1.5 feet high, with stately flower stalks reaching to 2 feet tall. Heat and drought tolerant, excellent as a landscape design element or container plant.

Growing Tips: Savannah grass is heat and drought tolerant, making it excellent as a landscape design element or container plant. Provide well-drained soil with regular watering, especially during dry periods. It thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Melinis nerviglumis
Life Cycle
Tender perennial
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
10–21
Days to Maturity
75–90
Planting Depth
Surface sow
Plant Spacing
9–12 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–75°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant into the garden or place outside after the danger of last spring frost has passed. In the warmest climates (USDA Zones 9-10), it can be grown as a perennial. In cooler regions, it is often treated as an annual, as it does not tolerate frost. If you're not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Prepare a well-drained soil bed by loosening it to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Surface-sow the seeds by scattering them on the soil and pressing them lightly, but do not cover them, as they need light to germinate. Space the plants about 9-12 inches apart to allow enough room for growth. After transplanting, water thoroughly to encourage root establishment.

How to Grow

Savannah grass prefers full sun and moderately moist, well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought-tolerant, requiring only occasional watering. Water regularly during the initial growth phase to keep the soil moist. Fertilization is minimal; a balanced fertilizer can be applied once during the growing season to boost growth. Prune back any dead or damaged foliage to maintain a neat appearance and remove spent flower heads to encourage new blooms​.

How to Save Seeds

  • Cut off dried seed heads and place them in a paper bag. Loose seeds will fall to the bottom of the bag. Seeds still in the seed head will continue to dry until they are ready to fall out.
  • After 1-2 weeks shake the bag to dislodge the remaining seeds.
  • Separate seed from the chaff.
  • Store in a cool, dry, dark place until you are ready to plant.

FAQ

Is Savannah grass frost-hardy?

Savannah grass is not frost-hardy. It should be grown as a perennial only in the warmest climates (Zones 9-10) and treated as an annual in regions with colder winters.

How tall does Savannah grass grow?

Savannah grass typically grows to about 18-24 inches tall and spreads to about 12-15 inches wide. It forms compact clumps, making it suitable for both small and large garden spaces.

How much sun does Savannah grass need?

Savannah grass grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Full sun exposure will result in the best flowering and foliage color.

Customer reviews

4 / 5 1 Review
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