Palmgrass

(Setaria palmifolia)

Palmgrass (Setaria palmifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Setaria palmifolia, commonly known as Palmgrass, is an evergreen perennial grass native to the understory of tropical rainforests and moist scrublands in South and Southeast Asia, as well as the Western Pacific. It typically grows up to two or three meters in length from a knotty rhizome, with robust stems that can be up to a centimeter thick. The leaf sheaths range from sparsely to densely hairy. Palmgrass is notable for its broad, pleated leaves that resemble palm fronds, contributing to its ornamental value. The foliage is deep green, and some cultivars, such as the variegated forms, have striped leaves, while ’Rubra’ features striking purple midribs.

Palmgrass is valued for its tropical appearance and is often used in cultivation for creating lush, exotic landscapes. It is suitable for border planting, as a specimen plant, or in containers for patios and indoor settings. This species prefers full sun to partial shade and requires medium amounts of water, thriving in a range of soil types with varying drainage. While it is generally easy to maintain, it can become invasive in some regions outside its native range, so care should be taken to manage its spread. Palmgrass may be susceptible to rust diseases and spider mites, especially when grown in dry conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 4-6 feet
  • Width: 4-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Understory of tropical rainforests and moist scrublands

Other Names

Common Names: Highland Pitpit, Hailans Pitpit, Short Pitpit, Broadleaved Bristlegrass, Knotroot, Palm Grass, Highland Pitpit, Broadleaved Bristlegrass, Hailans Pitpit, Short Pitpit, 棕葉狗尾草

Scientific Names: , Setaria palmifolia, Setaria paniculifera, Setaria effusa, Panicum palmifolium, Panicum sulcatum, Setaria palmifolia var. palmifolia, Panicum mexicanum, Panicum nepalense, Panicum amplissimum

GBIF Accepted Name: Setaria palmifolia (J.Koenig) Stapf