Contents
Description
Festuca Occidentalis, also known as Western Fescue or Blue Fescue, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. This grass species is native to western North America, particularly in the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. It grows in a clumping habit, with a height that ranges from 6-18 inches and a spread of 10-12 inches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Festuca |
Appearance
Festuca Occidentalis has narrow, thread-like leaves that have a bluish-green color. The leaves can grow up to 10 inches long and 1/8 inch wide. The grass species produces cylindrical flower spikes that can range from 4-10 inches long. The flower spikes have a greenish-blue color that turns into a golden-brown hue when mature.
Care Guide
Festuca Occidentalis is a low-maintenance plant species that requires minimal care. Here are the care tips for this grass species:- Water: Western Fescue is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year during the spring season using a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: Festuca Occidentalis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, from acidic to alkaline.- Sunlight: This grass species prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Festuca Occidentalis is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Festuca Occidentalis is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can still be affected by some common pests and diseases, including:- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. It can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant sap and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a jet of water or using insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Festuca Occidentalis is a native grass species of western North America. It grows in a variety of habitats, from coastal cliffs to high-elevation meadows. It can tolerate a wide range of soil and climatic conditions, from dry and sunny to moist and shady.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Festuca Occidentalis deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this grass species is deer-resistant and can be grown in areas where deer are a problem.
Q: Can Festuca Occidentalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Western Fescue can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How can I propagate Festuca Occidentalis?
A: This grass species can be propagated through division or by seed. Division should be done during the spring season, while seed sowing can be done during the fall or early spring.
Q: Can Festuca Occidentalis be used as a lawn grass?
A: Yes, Western Fescue can be used as a lawn grass in areas with low to moderate foot traffic. It is ideal for low-maintenance lawns that require minimal watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
– Festuca Glauca (Blue Fescue)- Festuca Rubra (Red Fescue)- Festuca Ovina (Sheep Fescue)
References
– “Festuca Occidentalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=264766.- “Festuca Occidentalis.” Plant of the Week, USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/festuca_occidentalis.shtml.- “Festuca Occidentalis.” Sunset Western Garden Book, 9th ed., Sunset Publishing Corporation, 2012, p. 248.
