Staberoha banksii Seeds - Evergreen Indigenous Perennial Ornamental Grass - New

Staberoha is a genus of around 9 species in the Restionaceae family. The genus was first described in 1841. The entire genus is endemic to the Western Cape Province of South Africa.

Staberoha banksii forms tufted plants to 60cm. The inflorescence is a deep red-copper colour. The male inflorescence is bell-shaped and pendulous. The female inflorescences are erect spikes. This is a very decorative plant, excellent in rockeries and pots.

The seed is planted in April–May (autumn) when the days are warm (20–30°C) and the nights are cool (10–15°C). Treat the seed prior to planting with Instant Smoke Primer. This smoke treatment greatly improves germination. Seed is planted into seed trays 100 mm deep and filled with a well-drained medium.

Plant the seed thickly as 50 % of restio seed is not viable. Cover the seed lightly with sand, and water. Place the trays in a light well-ventilated area. Keep the trays moist but not wet. After 3–4 weeks germination should take place. Once the plants have developed a few small culms, after ± 6 – 12 weeks, and are 30 mm tall, they can be pricked out into 6-packs or plug trays. Use a fynbos potting medium consisting of 1 part loam, 8 parts bark and 3 parts sand. Harden off the plants in a semi-shaded area until they are growing strongly (± 4 weeks) before placing in the sun. Once the roots start to show through the bottom of the trays they can be potted into small black bags. After growing on they will be ready to be planted in the garden. Plant out into the garden at the start of the rainy season and mix in some well-rotted compost into the planting hole. Water well if no rain is predicted. Maintain plants by removing old dead culms. Depending on growing conditions plants will need to be replaced after about 5 years. They will last longer than this in the garden but do tend to become untidy with age.