Bouteloua Gracilis, commonly known as Blue Grama, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the Great Plains region of the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The grass typically grows in dry and arid regions and is known for its tolerance to drought.
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Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Bouteloua |
Appearance
Blue Grama is a low-growing grass species that typically reaches a height of 10-20 inches. It has a dense, clumping growth habit and produces narrow, gray-green leaves that can grow up to 6 inches long. The grass produces flower spikes that are 2-4 inches long and have a distinctive “eyelash” appearance. The spikes are usually purple or brown in color and can be seen from late spring to early fall.
Care Guide
Blue Grama is a low maintenance grass species that is well adapted to dry and arid regions. It requires minimal care and attention and can thrive in a wide range of soil types. Here are some care tips for growing Blue Grama:
- Water: Blue Grama is drought tolerant and requires minimal watering. It can survive on rainfall alone, but occasional watering during dry spells can help promote growth.
- Fertilization: Blue Grama does not require regular fertilization. However, a light application of nitrogen-based fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
- Soil: Blue Grama can grow in a wide range of soil types but prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils. It can tolerate alkaline soils and is salt tolerant.
- Sunlight: Blue Grama requires full sun to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade but may not grow as vigorously.
- Hardiness Zones: Blue Grama is hardy in USDA zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Blue Grama is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to some fungal diseases such as leaf rust, smut, and anthracnose. Insects such as grasshoppers and armyworms can also feed on the grass.
Habitat
Blue Grama is native to North America and can be found in the Great Plains region of the United States, Mexico, and Canada. It typically grows in dry and arid regions and is well adapted to survive in harsh conditions. The grass is an important component of the native prairie ecosystem and provides food and habitat for a variety of wildlife species.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Blue Grama a good choice for a low maintenance lawn?
A: Yes, Blue Grama is an excellent choice for a low maintenance lawn. It requires minimal watering, fertilization, and mowing and is well adapted to survive in dry and arid regions.
Q: Can Blue Grama be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Blue Grama can be grown in containers. However, it may not grow as vigorously as it would in the ground and may require more frequent watering.
Q: How often should Blue Grama be mowed?
A: Blue Grama should be mowed to a height of 2-3 inches. It typically requires minimal mowing and can be left to grow naturally in low traffic areas.
Q: Is Blue Grama invasive?
A: No, Blue Grama is not considered invasive. It is a native grass species that is well adapted to its natural habitat and does not spread aggressively.
Related Plants
- Bouteloua curtipendula (Sideoats Grama)
- Bouteloua dactyloides (Buffalograss)
- Bouteloua hirsuta (Hairy Grama)
- Bouteloua radicosa (Texas Grama)
References
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Bouteloua gracilis (H.B.K.) Lag. ex Steud. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BOGR
- Colorado State University Extension. (2011). Blue Grama. Retrieved from https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/blue-grama-7-202/
- University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. (n.d.). Blue Grama. Retrieved from https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/bluegrama.html
