Dancing Grass - Seeds

Description: The Telegraph plant--also called Codariocalyx motorius, Desmodium gyrans, dancing plant, or semaphore plant--is often listed as one of the top 10 most unusual plants in existence. The reason for the fascination of the plant is its ability to rotate, or move the small leaflets, at the base of each larger leaf, to follow the warmth of the sun. Unlike most plants, this movement is fast and quite visible to the naked eye. Some people believe they can get their telegraph plant to dance to music. This may occur as the plant reacts to the vibrations of the tune.
How to grow:
1. Buy or collect telegraph seeds and soak one in warm water for 12 to 24 hours. 

2. Fill a small pot with loamy soil mixed with sand. Check that the pot has good drainage holes so the plant roots do not become waterlogged. Stick the telegraph seed about 1cm into the soil and pat the soil down.

3. Place the seed in a warm, bright area and keep the soil moist but not soaked. Filtered sunlight will promote healthier growth than direct sunlight. Place a plastic bag over the planted seed to promote humidity.

4. Allow the seed to germinate, keeping it moist. This could take anywhere from 10 days to three months, so do not give up if your telegraph plant does not germinate right away. Remove the plastic bag once the seed germinates.

5. Replant the seedling to a 5-inch pot once it begins to grow lateral leaves. Keep the plant in filtered sunlight and keep it moist throughout its growth. You may transplant the telegraph plant outside if you live in a warm enough climate.