Vetiver is known as a "miraculous grass" because it is very beneficial and versatile. Its feature lies in its function in soil and water conservation and erosion control.
His Majesty King Bhumibol is the first person in the country to recognize the value of vetiver. On 23 June 1991, he recommended that the plant be studied for utilization in soil and water conservation. Various organizations have since responded to the royal initiative and vetiver has been grown in all parts of the country.
The following characteristics enable vetiver to help conserve soil and water:
• It can withstand drought and flood.
• It can grow in all types of soil and is highly tolerant to toxins.
• It has a strong fibrous root system that penetrates and binds the soil to a depth of three metres and it protects soil from being washed off.
• It possesses aromatic roots from which a fragrance can be extracted.