Contents
1. Description
Koeleria Macrantha, also known as prairie Junegrass, is a beautiful, low-growing perennial grass that is native to North America. It is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add texture and color to their landscape. This grass typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet and spreads up to 2 feet wide.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Monocots |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Koeleria |
3. Appearance
Koeleria Macrantha has narrow, blue-green leaves that grow up to 12 inches long. The foliage forms dense clumps that are topped with delicate, airy flower spikes in early summer. The flowers are small and greenish-brown in color, but they add a unique texture to the landscape. After blooming, the flowers turn into attractive seed heads that can persist into winter.
4. Care Guide
Water: Koeleria Macrantha prefers well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist. Water it regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater it. Fertilization: This grass does not require a lot of fertilizer. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring if the soil is poor. Soil: Koeleria Macrantha prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not grow well in heavy clay soil. Sunlight: This grass prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Hardiness Zones: Koeleria Macrantha is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Koeleria Macrantha is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves.
6. Habitat
Koeleria Macrantha is native to the prairies of North America. It is commonly found in dry, rocky areas and open woodlands.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Can Koeleria Macrantha grow in containers?
A: Yes, this grass can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the root system. Q: How often should I fertilize Koeleria Macrantha?
A: This grass does not require a lot of fertilizer. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring if the soil is poor. Q: Can Koeleria Macrantha tolerate drought?
A: Yes, this grass is fairly drought-tolerant once established. However, it prefers consistent moisture. Q: How do I propagate Koeleria Macrantha?
A: This grass can be propagated by division in the spring.
9. Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:
- Festuca glauca (Blue Fescue)
- Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass)
- Calamagrostis x acutiflora (Feather Reed Grass)
- Andropogon gerardii (Big Bluestem)
10. References
Here are some references that we consulted while creating this guide:
- “Koeleria macrantha.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288107&isprofile=0&
- “Koeleria macrantha.” North Carolina State University Extension. Accessed 20 May 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/koeleria-macrantha/
- “Koeleria macrantha.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 20 May 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=KOMA
