Contents
Description
Poa Sphondylodes, commonly known as Alpine Bluegrass, is a perennial grass that is native to the high elevations of the Rocky Mountains in North America. It has a clumping growth habit and typically grows to be about 6-12 inches tall with a spread of 8-12 inches. Its foliage is a bright green color, and it produces blue-green seed heads in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Poa |
Appearance
The foliage of Poa Sphondylodes is bright green and somewhat fine-textured, which gives it a delicate appearance. The plant produces blue-green seed heads in late spring to early summer that add a pop of color to the landscape. The seed heads are about 2-3 inches long and have a slightly fluffy texture.
Care Guide
Poa Sphondylodes is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires well-draining soil and moderate watering. Here are some tips for caring for Alpine Bluegrass:
- Water: Water your Poa Sphondylodes regularly, but make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Poa Sphondylodes once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of seed head production.
- Soil: Poa Sphondylodes prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH (between 6.0 and 7.0). If your soil is heavy, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Poa Sphondylodes prefers full sun to partial shade. Avoid planting it in areas with full shade, as this can lead to weak growth and poor seed head production.
- Hardiness Zones: Poa Sphondylodes is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Poa Sphondylodes is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Leaf smut: a fungal disease that causes black spots on the leaves
- Crown rot: a fungal disease that causes the plant to wilt and die
- Aphids: small insects that suck the sap from the plant’s leaves
- Spider mites: small, spider-like insects that can cause yellowing and stunted growth
Habitat
Poa Sphondylodes is native to the high elevations of the Rocky Mountains in North America. It prefers to grow in well-draining soils with plenty of sunlight. It can be found growing in alpine meadows, on rocky slopes, and in other areas with well-draining soils and plenty of sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Poa Sphondylodes a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Poa Sphondylodes is a good plant for erosion control because it has a fibrous root system that helps to stabilize soil.
Q: Can Poa Sphondylodes grow in containers?
A: Yes, Poa Sphondylodes can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Poa Sphondylodes?
A: Fertilize your Poa Sphondylodes once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Poa Sphondylodes attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Poa Sphondylodes can attract wildlife such as birds and small mammals that feed on its seeds.
Related Plants
- Poa alpina
- Poa annua
- Poa pratensis
- Poa trivialis
References
- “Poa sp.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g900. Accessed 28 Jul. 2021.
- “Poa Sphondylodes.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/990/alpine-bluegrass/. Accessed 28 Jul. 2021.
- “Poa Sphondylodes – Alpine Bluegrass.” High Country Gardens, www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/poa/poa-sphondylodes. Accessed 28 Jul. 2021.
