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Description
Festuca Parvigluma, commonly known as small blue fescue, is a perennial ornamental grass native to Europe. This grass species belongs to the family Poaceae and is a popular choice for gardeners who want to add texture and color to their landscape. Small blue fescue is a clumping grass that forms dense mounds and grows up to 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Festuca |
Appearance
Small blue fescue has narrow, blue-gray leaves that grow up to 12 inches long and are less than 1/4 inch wide. The leaves are firm and spiky, which adds texture to the garden. The grass produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the summer that turn into brown seed heads. The seed heads are not showy and are usually removed to maintain the neat appearance of the grass.
Care Guide
Small blue fescue is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for this grass species:
- Water: Small blue fescue is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: Small blue fescue does not need fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring if desired.
- Soil: Small blue fescue prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate wet feet. Amend heavy clay soil with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Small blue fescue prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to protect the grass from scorching.
- Hardiness Zones: Small blue fescue is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Small blue fescue is generally pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to crown rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent crown rot, ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Small blue fescue grows naturally in rocky, gravelly soils and is commonly found in alpine regions. It is also used as an ornamental grass in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is small blue fescue deer-resistant?
A: Yes, small blue fescue is deer-resistant.
Q: Can small blue fescue be grown in containers?
A: Yes, small blue fescue can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: How often should I divide small blue fescue?
A: Small blue fescue does not need to be divided often. Divide it every 3-4 years to maintain its vigor.
Q: How tall does small blue fescue grow?
A: Small blue fescue grows up to 8 inches tall.
Related Plants
- Festuca Glauca
- Festuca Rubra
- Festuca Cinerea
References
- “Festuca glauca.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j630.
- “Festuca Glauca – Blue Fescue Grass Care And Uses.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/blue-fescue-grass/festuca-blue-fescue-grass.htm.
- “Festuca Parvigluma.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/120984/Festuca-parvigluma/Details.
