Cannomois grandis (virgata)

Common Name:

Plant Type:
Restio
Family:
Restionaceae (The Restio Family)
Geographic Origin:
South and Southern Africa
California Native?:
No

Plant Size:
To 10 feet
Landscape/Garden Uses:
Mixed plantings
Flowering Season:
Spring

Flower Color:
Gold
Exposure:
Sun or light shade
Soils:
Well-drained soil

Suggested Irrigation:
Moderate watering
Estimated Hardiness:
Hardy to 15-20 degrees F.

Cannomois grandis is a bold clumping perennial. Robust new culms can be colored pink to red, and the overall effect of the plant is bamboo-like as the culms mature. Culms can reach 10 feet in height and the clumps can spread more than that in width. Stems are gently arching when the plants are young, though older culms can droop to the ground, creating a wide foliage circle. This species needs moderate water throughout the year and is hardy to at least 20 degrees F. Cannomois grandis is the true name for what was known as Cannomois virgata in California and elsewhere for many years. The true Cannomois virgata is a shorter, spreading species.