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Status in Florida: Native

Native Habitat: Sandhills, dry pinelands, and the upper edges of pineland pools. Thrives in dry, sandy soils.

Native State, Country: Southeastern United States (Florida and Georgia)

Growing Zones: 8a - 9b

Size at Maturity: 1 - 4 feet tall

Phenology: Herbaceous perennial

Life Cycle: Perennial

Growth Rate: Moderate

Growth Habit: Clumping, upright

Bloom Season: Summer to fall (May - November)

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Soil Texture: Sandy, well-drained soils.

Soil pH: Acidic

Moisture Requirements: Dry to average. Drought tolerant.

Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None

Keystone Plant: No, but contributes to the biodiversity of its habitat.

Recommended Landscape Uses: Native plant gardens, wildflower meadows, xeriscaping, restoration projects.

Maintenance Tips: Little maintenance required. May benefit from occasional fire or controlled burns to mimic its natural environment.

Considerations: The common name "Toothache Grass" comes from the traditional use of its sharp-pointed spikelets to relieve toothaches. The curling seed heads add interesting texture to the landscape.

Hurricane Wind Resistant: Yes

Erosion Control: Yes, helps stabilize sandy soils.

Nitrogen Fixing: No

Edible: No

Pet Safe: No information available, assume caution.

Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Moderate

Historical Medicinal Uses: Used by Native Americans to treat toothaches (by placing the sharp spikelets in the cavity).

Florida Native Companion Plant: Aristida stricta (Wiregrass), Pinus palustris (Longleaf Pine)

Wildlife Benefit: Provides seeds for birds and small mammals. Offers habitat for insects.

Caterpillar Host Plant: Likely no, but more research is needed.

Propagation: Seed, division

Length of time Seed is Viable: Unknown, but likely short-lived.

Best month to Start Seeds: Spring or fall

Seed treatments: No specific treatments required.

Toothache Grass, Ctenium floridanum

$10.00Price
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