Rattlesnake Brome

This ornamental annual grass is a delightful addition to the UK cutting garden or meadow-style border. It is grown for its highly distinctive, drooping seed heads that have a flattened, scaled appearance reminiscent of a rattlesnake's tail or the heavy bells of Briza maxima. The spikelets are large and brome-like, hanging from delicate, thread-like stems that sway with the slightest breeze. It typically reaches a height of 40-60cm and has a fairly upright, slender habit. Although it is an annual, it is easy to grow from seed sown directly in spring and will often self-sow if the seed heads are left to mature. The flowers are beautiful in fresh bouquets but are particularly valued for drying, as they hold their shape and neutral colour indefinitely. It prefers a sunny site and well-drained soil but is not overly fussy. It brings a sense of playfulness and fine detail to the summer garden.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, light soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.