Phalaris canariensis L., canary grass Seeds, annual canary grass

Phalaris canariensis L., Canary Grass Seeds

Key Features & Details Canary Grass Annual

• Seed Shape: oval to oblong
• Seed Color: shiny brown
• Seed Texture: shiny
• Seed Size: small
• Seed Pod: Mature golden-brown seed heads.
• Sowing: Seeds are typically sown in spring, either directly outdoors or pre-sown in trays. As light germinators, the seeds should not be deeply covered with soil. Germination usually occurs within 5 to 7 days at temperatures above 10°C (around 20°C is ideal).
• Notes: Typically marketed for versatility, serving as a primary component in birdseed mixes, particularly for caged birds. Store in a dry place away from pests. Plant completes growth within a single season, ready for harvest about 120 days after planting when seed heads have matured and turned golden brown. Attracts birds.

Botanical Information Phalaris canariensis L.

• Botanical Name: Phalaris canariensis L.
• Common Names: canary grass, annual canarygrass
• Family: Poaceae
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Flower Time: Summer to early Autumn (for decorative seed heads)
• Height: 60-120 cm

Characteristics and Usage Canary Grass Seeds

• Birdseed Production
• Ornamental Grass
• Cut and Dried Flowers
• Naturalistic Plantings
• Cottage Gardens
• Low-maintenance
• Adds texture and height to gardens

Growing Conditions

• Sunlight: Prefers bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day, though it can tolerate partial shade.
• Soil: Adaptable and can succeed in ordinary garden soil, tolerating light (sandy), medium (loamy), and heavy (clay) soils.
• Habitat: Native to the Mediterranean region, hardy to UK zone 6.
• Soil pH: Mildly acidic to neutral and mildly alkaline.
• Moisture: Well-drained, moist soil is preferred, but it can tolerate both dry and wet conditions; good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Regular watering is needed to keep the soil moderately moist, especially during active growth, though the plant can handle periods of partial dryness.
• Germination: Seeds are light germinators and should not be deeply covered with soil. Germination usually occurs quickly, within 5 to 7 days at temperatures above 10°C (around 20°C is ideal), though some sources suggest 14-30 days.
• Propagation: Seeds are typically sown in spring, either directly outdoors or pre-sown in trays.
• Additional Notes: An easily grown and low-maintenance annual plant. Protection from extreme cold is advised. Can become invasive in some introduced areas, so plant carefully as it may spread.

Uses and Garden Appeal

• Attracts Wildlife: Birds