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Description
Festuca Altaica, also known as Altai Fescue or Siberian Fescue, is a cool-season, clumping grass that is native to the high altitudes of Siberia and Mongolia. It is a popular ornamental grass that can be used in rock gardens, borders, and as a groundcover. This grass is known for its fine texture and blue-gray foliage, which can provide a striking contrast to other plants in the garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Festuca |
Appearance
Festuca Altaica grows up to 12 inches tall and wide. Its narrow, fine-textured leaves are blue-gray in color and can reach up to 10 inches in length. In the summer, it produces attractive, airy panicles of flowers that can reach up to 24 inches in height. The flowers start off green and turn a golden brown as they mature. Its foliage can provide year-round interest, as it retains its color throughout the winter.
Care Guide
Festuca Altaica is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this ornamental grass:
- Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. After that, it can tolerate drought conditions.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: This grass prefers well-draining soil that is not too rich. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
- Sunlight: Festuca Altaica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but its foliage color may not be as intense.
- Hardiness Zones: Festuca Altaica is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Festuca Altaica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to rust and leaf spot in wet conditions. To prevent these issues, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Festuca Altaica is native to the high altitudes of Siberia and Mongolia, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soil. It is adapted to cold, dry conditions and can tolerate extreme temperatures and wind.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Festuca Altaica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Festuca Altaica can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Festuca Altaica?
A: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Can Festuca Altaica be divided?
A: Yes, Festuca Altaica can be divided in the spring or fall. Dig up the clump and use a sharp knife or spade to divide it into smaller sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil.
Q: Is Festuca Altaica deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Festuca Altaica is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Festuca Glauca
- Festuca Rubra
- Festuca Californica
References
- “Festuca Altaica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c480.
- “Festuca Altaica.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/festuca-altaica.
- “Festuca Altaica.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9086/Festuca-altaica/Details.
