Many people assume that animals instinctively recognize poisonous plants. In most cases, however, the feeling is based on experience, so it can happen that unknown plants are eaten and cause stomach upset. Do you have a pet that you don't want to endanger? You can confidently plant zebra grass in the garden. Learn more about toxicity here.
Guinea pigs can confidently nibble on zebra grass
Zebra grass is a sweet grass
Zebra grass comes from the ornamental grass family, more precisely the sweet grass family, in which poisonous specimens do not occur. Consumption is not dangerous for humans or animals. However, zebra grass has very sharp edges on the stalks that can damage the skin. Animals could cut their mouths open.
Zebra grass as forage crop
On the contrary, zebra grass is a popular forage crop for rodents like
- Guinea pig
- and rabbits
Feel free to let your pets run free in the garden and eat from the zebra grass.
Are protective measures required?
Nevertheless, protective measures may well be necessary. Again, you shouldn't expect to protect your pets, but protect the plant. The Chinese plant tastes so good to some rodents that the stalks are severely eaten and later do not develop as well. Especially since eaten stalks offer a rather shabby appearance. Since rabbits and guinea pigs are among the most common "enemies", a protective measure is quite easy to set up. A low wire fence will do. Simply tie the overhanging culms together so they can thrive at unreachable heights. However, it should be noted that it is very rare for zebra grass to be eaten so badly that consequential damage remains.