Tropical Indian giant clumping grass with deep penetrating fibrous root systems used internationally for soil erosion control. Roots distil to give the cool earthy-smoky vetiver essential oil.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 8–11 | −12.2 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H3 | −5 °C to 1 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 9 | −1 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 3–7 | −5 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Native to tropical India — major commercial cultivation across the tropics for erosion control and essential oil
- Soil engineering — vertical root system to 3–4 m depth, used commercially as living hedgerow on contour to stop soil erosion on tropical slopes
- Root essential oil is a major fixative in perfumery — cool, earthy, smoky
- Sterile (non-flowering) cultivars are preferred for commercial use — no invasive risk, all reproduction by root division
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Related plants
Cross-check Vetiver against your zones