Spike Trisetum
Trisetum spicatum

Family: Poaceae or Gramineae

What it is like

Trisetum spicatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.3

Where it is found

Rocky places, tundra meadows, stony slopes and mountain rocks in the Arctic and sub-arctic regions.

N. Europe, N. Asia, Northern N. America as far south as the mountains of California.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Seed. No more details are given but it is likely to be used as a piñole or to be ground into a powder and mixed with cereals when making bread etc.

Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of the country. It is likely to require a sunny position and a well-drained soil. A very variable plant, there are many sub-species.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed in a cold frame in early spring. Only just cover the seed and do not allow the compost to dry out. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

T. subspicatum.