With its striking stripes and exotic flair, Zebra Grass is a total showstopper in any backyard. But if you want those blades to stay vibrant and healthy, picking the right spot is key. Here’s everything you need to know about finding the perfect home for your Zebra Grass.
Zebra Grass Loves Sun and Moisture
Originally from East Asia, Zebra Grass is used to slightly warmer climates than what we typically see in many parts of the U.S. Don’t worry, though—this ornamental grass is surprisingly hardy and will thrive in your garden as long as you plant it in the right location.
Whether you’re putting it in a garden bed or a large patio container, the number one rule is: give it plenty of sun. While it can survive in partial shade, the grass will eventually lose those iconic yellow horizontal stripes if it doesn’t get enough light. To keep that “zebra” look that we all love, full sun is a must!
Quick Tips for Watering Your Zebra Grass:
- Use rainwater or filtered water when possible.
- Add a little liquid fertilizer from spring through fall.
- Water regularly, but make sure the soil doesn’t get waterlogged.
The ideal soil for Zebra Grass is a mix of dirt, loam, and a bit of sand. If your backyard soil isn’t quite there yet, you can easily DIY it. Just mix in some sand or fine gravel to improve drainage. This helps the soil stay moist enough for the plant without letting the roots sit in stagnant water.
Give It Some Breathing Room
Because Zebra Grass can grow quite tall, it develops a pretty robust root system just below the surface. To make sure it doesn’t hog all the water from its neighbors, you’ll want to take a few precautions. First, give it some space—aim for a few feet of distance between the grass and your other plants.
Second, it’s a smart move to install a root barrier before you dig your hole. This keeps the grass from spreading further than you want it to. You also don’t need a ton of plants to make an impact; even a single specimen looks impressive once it reaches its full height. Of course, if you’re looking to create a lush privacy screen, planting a row of them is a fantastic way to go!
