Plant Profile: Chrysopogon zizanioides

Veltiver is a warm-season grass characterized by its slender, light green leaves and upright growth, which displays attractive fall colors. The variety commonly found in the United States is V. 'Sunshine,' a sterile cultivar. In cooler regions, it can be cultivated as an annual in containers. This plant is not only edible, but the oil extracted from its roots is utilized as a flavoring agent in various products, including sherbets, sweet syrups, fruit beverages, and canned asparagus. Additionally, these oils may play a role in certain medicinal formulations.

Globally, Veltiver is employed for soil and water conservation, as well as various environmental protection efforts. Its effectiveness stems from a robust and deep root system, which exhibits a high tolerance for heavy metals and the capacity to absorb significant amounts of excess nitrates, phosphates, and agricultural chemicals from both soil and water.