Contents
Description
Poa is a genus of grasses that are found worldwide, from the Arctic to the tropics. They are cool-season grasses that are commonly used in lawns, pastures, and golf courses. The name Poa comes from the Greek word for grass. There are over 500 species of Poa, some of which are native to specific regions while others have been introduced.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Poa |
Appearance
Poa grasses are typically low-growing and form dense mats. They have narrow leaves with a bluish-green color that can range from light to dark. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and they are often found in open panicles at the top of the stem. The seed heads are typically branched and can range from green to purplish-brown in color.
Care Guide
Poa grasses are relatively easy to care for. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and partial shade, although some species can tolerate full sun. They require regular watering, especially during dry periods, and should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. Poa grasses are hardy in USDA zones 3-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Poa grasses are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. They can also be affected by insects such as billbugs, chinch bugs, and sod webworms. Proper care, including regular watering and fertilization, can help prevent many of these issues.
Habitat
Poa grasses are found in a wide range of habitats, from alpine tundra to coastal marshes. They are often found in meadows, pastures, and lawns, and they are commonly used in golf courses as well. Some species of Poa are invasive and can crowd out native plants in certain habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Poa grasses drought tolerant?
A: While some species of Poa can tolerate drought, they prefer moist soil and regular watering.
Q: Can Poa grasses be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, Poa grasses can be effective for erosion control due to their dense mat-forming growth habit.
Q: Are Poa grasses evergreen?
A: Some species of Poa are evergreen, while others are deciduous.
Q: Can Poa grasses be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Poa grasses can be grown in containers as long as they are provided with adequate moisture and nutrients.
Related Plants
- Festuca
- Lolium
- Bromus
- Agrostis
References
- University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources. (n.d.). Poa. UC IPM. https://www2.ipm.ucanr.edu/agriculture/turf-and-landscape/poa/
- Poa. (n.d.). Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282934&isprofile=0&basic=poa
- Kolar, C. S., & Lodge, D. M. (2001). Progress in invasion biology: predicting invaders. Trends in ecology & evolution, 16(4), 199-204.
