Festuca Matthewsii

Description

Festuca Matthewsii, also known as Blue Sheep Fescue, is an ornamental grass native to the mountainous regions of western North America. It is a compact, clumping grass that typically grows to a height and width of 8-12 inches. This grass is known for its blue-green foliage, which gives it a unique and striking appearance.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The blue-green foliage of Festuca Matthewsii is its most distinguishing characteristic. The leaves are narrow and needle-like, typically growing to a length of 6-8 inches. The grass produces small flowers in the summer, but they are not particularly showy. The overall appearance of the plant is compact and tidy, making it an excellent choice for borders or rock gardens.

Care Guide

Festuca Matthewsii is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sunlight. Here are some tips for caring for this ornamental grass:

• Water: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
• Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring.
• Soil: Festuca Matthewsii prefers well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline pH.
• Sunlight: This grass requires full sunlight to thrive.
• Hardiness Zones: Festuca Matthewsii is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Festuca Matthewsii is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by a few common problems:

• Crown Rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. It is often caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil.
• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.
• Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat the foliage of the plant, causing it to look ragged. They can be controlled with slug bait or by handpicking.

Habitat

Festuca Matthewsii is native to the mountainous regions of western North America, where it can be found growing in rocky or gravelly soils. It is well adapted to cool, dry climates and can tolerate some shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Festuca Matthewsii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this grass can be grown 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 Festuca Matthewsii be fertilized?
A: This grass only needs to be fertilized once per year, in the early spring.

Q: Does Festuca Matthewsii attract wildlife?
A: This grass is not particularly attractive to wildlife, but it can provide cover and nesting material for small animals and birds.

Q: Can Festuca Matthewsii be divided?
A: Yes, this grass can be divided every few years to prevent it from becoming overcrowded.

Related Plants

• Festuca Glauca
• Festuca Cinerea
• Festuca Ovina
• Festuca Rubra

References

• “Festuca Matthewsii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282238.
• “Festuca Matthewsii.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/132284/.
• “Blue Sheep Fescue.” American Meadows, www.americanmeadows.com/blue-sheep-fescue-festuca-glauca.