Ctenium aromaticum - Toothache grass

Life Cycle: Perennial 

Soil Moisture: Medium to moist 

Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade 

Height: grass 6” to 1’ tall, flower spike to 3-4’,  clumps are 1-3’ wide 

Bloom Color: Green 

Bloom Time: Summer 

Fauna: Larval host plant for the Arogos skipper (Atrytone arogos) butterfly. Provides cover for birds and other wildlife. Seeds are eaten by birds.

Planting Considerations: Toothache grass is native to the Southeastern coastal plain where it grows naturally in medium to moist pine flatwoods and moist savannas. Its unique seed heads that curl into spirals, makes this plant an interesting addition to a bog garden, medium to moist meadow or container. Works well as a mass planting or in small groups. It can tolerate flooding and occasional short periods of drought. 

Field Notes: The roots and lower stems contain isobutylamides which have a numbing effect on the mouth and lips when chewed. The plant has a citrus scent when the leaves are crushed.