How to Grow Bana Grass

Origins and Background

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.

Description of the Plant

Bana grass is a sterile, clumping perennial grass that grows vigorously and forms dense stands. Its most notable features include:

• Height: Reaches 3 to 5 meters or more under ideal conditions.
• Stems: Thick, bamboo-like canes that are soft when young and lignify as they mature.
• Leaves: Long, blade-like leaves that are deep green and can be harvested repeatedly.
• Roots: Fibrous and shallow, excellent for erosion control and rapid soil binding.

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.

Propagation and Growing Instructions

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.

• Climate: Thrives in tropical to subtropical climates but is surprisingly drought-tolerant once established.
• Soil: Grows well in a wide range of soils but prefers well-drained, loamy soil rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for optimal growth.
• Spacing: Plant cuttings 1 meter apart for hedges or in wider spacing (1.5–2 meters) for biomass and chop-and-drop systems.

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:

• Trim regularly to encourage new leafy growth and prevent excessive lignification.
• Chop back to 30–50 cm (1–2 feet) every few months to harvest biomass and maintain shape.
• Apply compost, liquid fertilizer, or diluted manure tea during the growing season for vigorous regrowth.

Uses in Permaculture

1. Biomass Production

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.

2. Fodder

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.

3. Windbreaks and Microclimate Creation

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.

4. Soil Stabilization and Erosion Control

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.

5. Water Management

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.

6. Carbon Sequestration

With its prolific biomass and fast regrowth, Bana grass is an excellent candidate for carbon sequestration strategies in regenerative agriculture.

Conclusion

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.