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Description
Melica Altissima, commonly known as Tall Melic Grass or Siberian Melic Grass, is a perennial grass native to Eurasia. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is a popular choice for ornamental grasses due to its tall stature and gracefully arching leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Melica |
Appearance
Melica Altissima can grow up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide, producing long and slender leaves that can reach up to 1 inch in width. The leaves are a bright green color and have a glossy texture. In early summer, the plant produces tall, slender flower stems that can reach up to 8 inches in length. The flowers are small and greenish-white in color and are arranged in a loose and open panicle at the top of the stem.
Care Guide
Melica Altissima is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: Plant Melica Altissima in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients.
- Sunlight: Melica Altissima prefers full sun to partial shade, so make sure to plant it in a spot that receives plenty of sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Melica Altissima is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melica Altissima is generally a pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases if the plant is overwatered or grown in poorly-draining soil. To prevent these diseases, make sure to water the plant appropriately and plant it in well-draining soil.
Habitat
Melica Altissima is native to Eurasia and can be found growing in meadows, woodland edges, and along roadsides. It prefers moist soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Melica Altissima a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Melica Altissima is a popular choice for landscaping due to its tall and graceful appearance.
Q: How often should I water Melica Altissima?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Melica Altissima?
A: Melica Altissima is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Q: Does Melica Altissima attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Melica Altissima can attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Melica Ciliata
- Melica Uniflora
- Melica Nutans
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Melica Altissima. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g630
- RHS. (n.d.). Melica Altissima. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/231112/Melica-altissima/Details
- Southern Living. (n.d.). Tall Melic Grass. Retrieved from https://www.southernliving.com/plants/tall-melic-grass
