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Description
Melica Californica, commonly known as California melic grass, is a perennial grass that is native to California and Baja California. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is a popular ornamental grass due to its attractive foliage and flowers. The grass grows up to 1-3 feet tall and has a clumping habit. The leaves are narrow, flat, and up to 1 foot long, while the flowers are spike-like and grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers appear in spring and early summer and are usually green or purple in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Melica |
Appearance
Melica Californica has a clumping habit and grows up to 1-3 feet tall. The leaves are narrow, flat, and up to 1 foot long. They are green in color and have a shiny texture. The flowers are spike-like and grow up to 6 inches long. They appear in spring and early summer and are usually green or purple in color. The seeds are small and round, and they are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
When growing Melica Californica, it is important to provide it with the proper care to ensure healthy growth. Here are some tips on how to care for this grass:
- Water: Water the grass regularly, especially during the summer months. Melica Californica prefers moist soil.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the grass in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Melica Californica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This grass prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Melica Californica is hardy in zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melica Californica is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to rust fungus, which can cause yellowing of the leaves. To prevent rust fungus, ensure proper air circulation and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Melica Californica is native to California and Baja California. It can be found in grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands. It prefers moist soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Melica Californica drought-tolerant?
A: No, Melica Californica prefers moist soil and is not drought-tolerant.
Q: Can Melica Californica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Melica Californica can be grown in containers as long as it has enough room to grow.
Q: Does Melica Californica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Melica Californica can attract birds and butterflies.
Q: How often should Melica Californica be fertilized?
A: Melica Californica should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Melica imperfecta
- Melica frutescens
- Melica harfordii
References
- “Melica Californica.” Las Pilitas Nursery. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/851–melica-californica
- “Melica Californica.” Calflora. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=2155
- “Melica Californica.” San Marcos Growers. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=2248
