Vetiver Grass

Vetiver Grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) is a fast-growing, deep-rooted perennial grass ideal for erosion control, soil improvement, and natural pest deterrence. It thrives in hot, dry conditions, making it perfect for Australian gardens. Vetiver's dense root system helps stabilise slopes, prevent runoff, and regenerate depleted soils. Its fragrant roots are traditionally used in natural cooling, essential oils, and herbal applications. This low-maintenance grass requires minimal watering once established and is highly drought-tolerant.

Features:

Ideal Prune Height: 50cm – 1.5m

pH Growing Conditions: 4.0 – 9.5

Shade or Full Sun: Full sun preferred, tolerates part shade

Minimum Pot Year 5: 20L

harvest notes: easy to harvest roots by allowing small pots to overflow roots into a softer substrate under pot.

Indian Names for Vetiver Grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides)

• Hindi: खस (Khas)
• Tamil: வெட்டிவேர் (Vettiver)
• Bengali: খাস ঘাস (Khas Ghash)
• Kannada: ಲವನಚವಿಲೆ (Lavanachavile)
• Telugu: వేటివేరు (Vetiveru)
• Malayalam: വറ്റിവേര് (Vattiver)
• Marathi: वाळा (Vala)
• Gujarati: ખસ (Khas)

Indian Cultural Notes

Vetiver, or Khas, has been valued in India for centuries for its cooling and medicinal properties. The dried roots are woven into mats and screens that release a refreshing, earthy scent when sprinkled with water, making them essential during the hot summer months.

In Ayurveda, vetiver is known for its ability to balance body heat, calm the mind, and detoxify the body. It is used in cooling herbal drinks, infused bathing water, and medicinal oils for skin conditions. Holy water in temples is often infused with vetiver for purification.

Vetiver is widely planted for soil conservation in India, preventing erosion along rivers, farms, and roadsides. Its strong roots bind the soil and improve water retention, making it a valuable plant for sustainable agriculture. The fragrant oil extracted from vetiver roots is used in perfumes, incense, and traditional Indian attars.

Limited stock. Pickup in Parkwood (near Riverton) by appointment.