What is savanna grass? The sustainable natural material behind the African baskets from YAADU
If you've ever wondered what the beautiful handmade baskets from YAADU are made of – here is the answer: savanna grass.
But what exactly is savanna grass? Where does it grow, why is it so popular for weaving – and why is it considered particularly sustainable? In this article, you will learn everything about the material that makes our baskets so special.
1. What is savanna grass?
Savanna grass – also known as elephant grass or by its botanical name Vetiveria nigritana – is a tall-growing grass species that thrives in the dry savanna regions of West Africa.
It grows there wild and in large quantities, is extremely robust, low-maintenance, and requires no artificial irrigation or fertilizers – a prime example of a natural, regenerative material.
2. Where does YAADU's savanna grass come from?
The savanna grass we use at YAADU comes from rural regions in Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Ivory Coast. There it is harvested sustainably, hand-cut, dried, and then processed – by artisans who have passed down the weaving tradition for generations.
3. Why is savanna grass ideal for baskets?
Savanna grass has properties that make it perfect for handmade baskets:
-
Flexible in weaving, but extremely stable in the result
-
Lightweight yet load-bearing – ideal for laundry, blankets, or toys
-
Naturally breathable – no unpleasant odors like with plastic
-
Durable & shape-retaining – with proper care, a savanna grass basket lasts many years
-
Aesthetically beautiful – natural beige tones that combine wonderfully with other colors
4. Sustainability: A material with a future
Savanna grass is not only a high-quality natural product – it is also from an ecological perspective a true showcase material:
-
Renewable: grows back annually, completely without human intervention
-
Biodegradable: no microplastics, no waste
-
Locally available: short transport routes in production
-
Supports local economies: through the craft of weaving, the grass is valued directly on site
5. Fair & hand-processed – at YAADU
We at YAADU work directly with African weavers who process the savannah grass into baskets using traditional techniques and without machines.
Every basket is a handmade unique piece, crafted with care, skill, and knowledge passed down through generations.
✅ Conclusion: Savannah grass is more than just a material
It is a symbol of:
-
Connection to nature
-
Sustainability
-
Cultural identity
-
Fair trade
🌿 When you buy a basket made of savannah grass, you get more than just a product – you support sustainable production, genuine craftsmanship, and strong communities.
Discover our baskets made of savannah grass
Whether as a laundry basket, plant basket, or decorative object – at YAADU you will find baskets made of 100% savannah grass, handcrafted and fairly traded.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Savannah Grass
Is savannah grass the same as sea grass?
No – sea grass comes from the sea, savannah grass grows on land in the dry savannahs of Africa.
Is savannah grass allergenic?
No – it is odorless, untreated, and generally not problematic for allergy sufferers.
How do you care for baskets made of savannah grass?
Simply wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Do not expose to permanently humid air.
