Annuals Dictionary: Briza
Grass family
Gramineae
Bry’za. A group of slender grasses, usually called quaking grass.
Description
Leaf blades flat, the spikelets suggesting small, flattened hops, often nodding on threadlike stalks.
How to Grow
In early spring work up the soil and lay down a 2-3 ft. (60-90 cm) square of clear plastic. Secure the edges with soil. Cut a 6-in. (15-cm) cross in center, and plant seeds where they can grow through the slits. Later, cover plastic with dried grass clippings to shade out weeds. Prefers cool weather.
Briza maxima
Quaking Oats . 1-2 ft. (30-60 cm) high. Spikelets in. (13 mm) long, reddish-brown or tan touched with green, turning pale or metallic, borne on slender, drooping pedicels. S. Europe. Good for dried bouquets. Also sold as B. major. Hardy annual.