Dried briza

Briza is a dried ornamental grass whose greatest asset is its inflorescences with a very interesting structure. They resemble small, hanging spikelets or scales that move gently with every movement. Dried miscanthus gives floral compositions a lightness and natural character.

Briza

Quaking grass (Briza) is a monocotyledonous plant belonging to the Poaceae family. The genus comprises about 20 species, of which medium quaking grass and lesser quaking grass are found in Poland. The latter is considered an ephemerophyte species, i.e. temporarily wild. In floristry, the greater quaking grass (Briza maxima), native to southern Europe and North Africa, is also very popular. The grass is perfect for dry bouquets. It looks great on its own or in combination with other dried flowers. It is a favourite among handicraft enthusiasts.

What does briza look like?

Quaking grass is a medium-sized ornamental grass. It grows to a maximum height of 50 cm and grows in small clumps. It has narrow, grey-green leaves. The most recognisable part of the plant are its inflorescences. They consist of single spikelets, whose glumes form an interesting, scaly pattern, resembling tiny flattened cones. Importantly, they hang loosely on thread-like, delicate branches of the shoot, causing them to tremble with every breeze – hence the name of the plant. The spikelets can be light green or straw-coloured. Sometimes, a purple colouring appears in their upper part. Briza blooms from June to July. The flowers are located between the glumes of the spikelets and are barely visible.

Briza in natural conditions and cultivation

Under natural conditions, the briza occurs throughout almost all of Europe and in northern and central Asia. It mainly grows in meadows and wasteland. It is an indicator of mineral-poor soils. The plant is frost-resistant and tolerates drought well, which is why it occurs in various climatic zones.

In recent years, common briza and greater briza have become increasingly common in gardens and flower beds. The advantage of the medium quaking grass  is that it does not have high cultivation requirements. It grows well in soils with limited nutrients. It is only important that the substrate is fairly well-drained. Slightly acidic soils are optimal for common quaking grass. The plant is best planted in a sunny location, although it will also thrive in light shade. Although it is resistant to water shortage, it is worth watering it during droughts – then it will develop beautiful, impressive spikes. The species does not require any care other than pruning dead shoots and leaves in spring. It is resistant to diseases and pest infestation.

It is worth noting that, unlike common briza, greater briza requires fertile, humus-rich soil. As it does not occur naturally in Poland, it is an annual plant in our country and is not frost-resistant.

Use of briza

Both medium and larger varieties of quaking grass, which produce more impressive spikes, look wonderful in gardens and flower beds. It is ideal for planting on slopes and rockeries. It works well in naturalistic and rural gardens. Quaking grass looks great in combination with other ornamental grasses and perennials. It also looks good against walls and fences. However, it should be remembered that the plant is not tall, so it is worth planting it in the foreground to make it visible.

Dried Quaking grass in floristry

Briza is perfect for dry bouquets. Its striking inflorescences can be placed in a vase on their own or combined with other dried flowers. This will give the composition a light and delicate look. The plant works well in bouquets decorating modern, traditional or rustic interiors. There is nothing to stop you from using it to make decorative wreaths or Easter decorations. 

Dried quaking grass is also popular among people who enjoy handicrafts. The spikes can be used to make greeting cards or invitations. They look beautiful when embedded in resin. In this form, quaking grass can become an element of handmade jewellery or decorations that are interesting elements of interior design. It should not be forgotten that dried grass is also suitable for weaving into macramé.

Dried Briza at Blosmi

Blosmi offers dried briza with natural colouring and bleached. The shoots reach a height of approx. 50 cm. The approximate weight of one bunch is 70 g. All plants are carefully packed and secured for transport.