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Bana grass (Pennisetum purpureum x Pennisetum americanum) is a hybrid grass developed from a cross between Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) and Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum). It originates from tropical Africa, where Napier grass has long been used as fodder. Bana grass was bred specifically to enhance the beneficial traits of both parent species: the size, vigor, and biomass of Napier grass, combined with the drought resistance and adaptability of pearl millet.
Though relatively unknown outside agricultural and fodder systems, Bana grass is gaining attention in permaculture and regenerative farming due to its resilience, productivity, and diverse applications.
Bana grass is a sterile, clumping perennial grass that grows vigorously and forms dense stands. Its most notable features include:
As a sterile hybrid, Bana grass does not produce viable seeds. It spreads only through cuttings, which makes it non-invasive and easy to control.
Bana grass is propagated entirely through stem cuttings. Select healthy, mature stalks and cut them into sections approximately 15-30cm long, each containing at least two nodes.
If planting directly into the ground you should opt for larger cuttings. These cuttings are planted horizontally or at an angle, partially buried in the soil with one node underground and one exposed.
If propagating in a pot first you can get away with smaller cuttings. We generally place 1-3 cuttings in a 10cm pot and then place the pot in a dish of water. This utilises the ‘wicking’ method to keep the mix constantly moist while the cutting develops roots. We find this method much more successful compared to planting directly in the soil. Once roots develop you can plant the cuttings out.
Water the cuttings well and keep the soil moist until new growth appears. This typically takes 1–2 weeks in warm conditions. Once established, Bana grass is fast-growing and low-maintenance. It benefits from regular mulching and composting but will tolerate poor soils.
For ongoing maintenance:
Its rapid growth and high yield make it one of the best sources of green mulch, compost materials, and chop-and-drop biomass. It can produce several tons of biomass per hectare per year, helping regenerate degraded soils and feed soil biology.
Bana grass is highly palatable to livestock when young and tender. It is ideal for cut-and-carry feeding systems in silvopasture or integrated animal systems. It is rich in crude protein and digestible fiber, especially when cut young.
Due to its height and density, Bana grass makes an excellent windbreak or living fence. It can also be used to create shelter belts, protect young plants from harsh sun or wind, and act as a backdrop for layered planting.
Its fibrous root system binds soil effectively, making it ideal for stabilizing slopes, swales, and dam edges. It thrives in erosion-prone zones and regenerates quickly after cutting.
Bana grass performs well in wet zones, such as greywater areas, swale berms, or near ponds. It helps in water filtration and uptake, acting like a sponge that slows runoff and promotes infiltration.
With its prolific biomass and fast regrowth, Bana grass is an excellent candidate for carbon sequestration strategies in regenerative agriculture.
Bana grass is a fast-growing, easy-to-manage, and non-invasive giant grass that deserves more recognition in sustainable agriculture and permaculture systems. Its role as a dynamic accumulator of biomass, soil builder, livestock fodder, and multifunctional landscape element makes it a true permaculture powerhouse.
Whether you’re building a food forest, managing erosion, creating windbreaks, or seeking a consistent mulch supply, Bana grass is a low-tech, high-return solution worth planting.
