Vetiver

Overview

Vetiver forms tight clumps with roots that can grow several feet straight down. Planted in a line across a slope, the clumps form a living wall that traps soil and slows runoff. Over time, soil builds up behind the hedge into a natural terrace.

History

Vetiver comes from India and is used worldwide for soil and water conservation. The sterile ‘Sunshine’ type is the one usually recommended for this.

Growing on Kauaʻi

• Grows in sun on almost any soil, wet or dry.
• Use sterile, non-seeding cultivars such as ‘Sunshine’, so it stays where you plant it.

Planting and propagation

• Divide a clump into slips with a few stems and roots each; trim leaves to about 8 inches.
• Plant slips about 6 inches apart along the contour so they grow into a solid hedge.
• Water until established.

Care and maintenance

• Cut the hedge back to about 1–2 ft once or twice a year and use the leaves as mulch.
• Fill any gaps so water can’t slip through.

Role in the guild

Plant it as a contour hedgerow across slopes, along swale berms, and around the edges of beds. See Water Management.

Harvest

Cut the leaves for mulch or thatch whenever the hedge gets tall.

Uses

• Soil: erosion control and slope stabilization.
• Mulch: long-lasting cut leaves.
• Craft: leaves for thatch and weaving; roots for fragrance.

Problems to watch

• Slow to establish in very dry spells.
• Avoid seeding types.

General guidance for Kauaʻi; conditions vary by site. Check any new plant at plantpono.org before planting.