Contents
Description
Festuca Gautieri, also known as the Dwarf Blue Fescue, is a drought-tolerant, cool-season ornamental grass that is native to the rocky mountains of southern Europe. This evergreen grass is known for its attractive blue-green foliage that forms dense mounds, making it a popular choice for garden borders, rock gardens, and containers. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care and is a great addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Spermatophyta
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Poales
Family: Poaceae
Genus: Festuca
Appearance
The Festuca Gautieri has a clumping habit and grows to a height of 10-15cm and a spread of 20-30cm. It has narrow, fine-textured, blue-green leaves that grow in dense tufts. The leaves are about 15cm long and 0.5cm wide. In early summer, it produces delicate, erect, greenish-blue flower spikes that rise above the foliage and add to its ornamental value. The flowers turn into brownish seed heads that remain attractive throughout winter.
Care Guide
Water: Festuca Gautieri is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water it deeply once a week during dry spells, and avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: This grass does not require fertilization. However, you may fertilize it with a slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote growth.
Soil: Festuca Gautieri prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline to acidic. It can grow in poor soils, but it thrives in fertile soils that are amended with organic matter.
Sunlight: This grass prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but may not produce as much blue coloration as it would in full sun.
Hardiness Zones: Festuca Gautieri is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Festuca Gautieri is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to crown rot, leaf spot, and rust diseases in humid conditions or when planted in poorly-drained soils. To prevent these problems, plant it in well-drained soil and avoid overhead watering. Aphids and mealybugs may occasionally infest this grass, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Festuca Gautieri is native to the rocky mountains of southern Europe, including Spain, Portugal, and France. It grows in dry, rocky, and sandy soils in full sun to partial shade. It is commonly found in meadows, rocky outcrops, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Festuca Gautieri deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Festuca Gautieri is deer-resistant.
Q: How often should I divide Festuca Gautieri?
A: Festuca Gautieri does not require frequent division. You may divide it every 3-4 years in spring or fall to rejuvenate the plant and maintain its size.
Q: Can I grow Festuca Gautieri in containers?
A: Yes, Festuca Gautieri is a great choice for containers. Use well-drained soil and water it sparingly.
Q: Can I propagate Festuca Gautieri from seed?
A: Yes, you may propagate Festuca Gautieri from seed. Collect the seed heads in late summer and sow them in a well-drained soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm, bright location. The seeds should germinate within 1-2 weeks.
Related Plants
- Festuca glauca
- Festuca ovina
- Festuca cinerea
- Festuca rubra
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Festuca Gautieri. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k400
- RHS. (n.d.). Festuca Gautieri. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/75264/Festuca-Gautieri/Details
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Festuca Gautieri (Dwarf Blue Fescue). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/festuca-gautieri-dwarf-blue-fescue
