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Description
Melica Stricta, also known as Narrow-leaved Melic Grass, is a cool-season, perennial grass species that belongs to the family Poaceae. This grass species is native to North America, and it is commonly found in woodlands, meadows, and prairies. The grass has a clumping growth habit and can grow up to a height of 3 feet. The stem of Melica Stricta is slender and has a bluish-green color. The leaves are narrow, flat, and have a smooth texture. The inflorescence is a panicle that has a purplish-brown color and is about 3 to 6 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Melica |
Appearance
Melica Stricta has a clumping growth habit that forms dense tufts. The stem is slender, and the leaves are narrow, flat, and have a smooth texture. The leaf blades are about 2 to 10 inches long and 0.12 to 0.2 inches wide. The inflorescence is a panicle that has a purplish-brown color and is about 3 to 6 inches long. The flowers are small and are arranged in spikelets. The spikelets have long hairs that give the inflorescence a soft, fluffy appearance.
Care Guide
Water
Melica Stricta prefers moderate moisture levels. It can tolerate short periods of drought but may require watering during prolonged dry spells. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing 1 inch of water per week.
Fertilization
Melica Stricta does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Soil
Melica Stricta grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight
Melica Stricta prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but may not flower well in these conditions.
Hardiness Zones
Melica Stricta grows well in hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests and Diseases
Melica Stricta is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by leaf spots, rust, and stem blight. These diseases can be controlled by removing infected plant parts and applying a fungicide.
Habitat
Melica Stricta is native to North America and is commonly found in woodlands, meadows, and prairies. It is a cool-season grass species and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Melica Stricta an invasive species?
A: No, Melica Stricta is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can Melica Stricta be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Melica Stricta can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size potential.
Q: Does Melica Stricta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Melica Stricta attracts birds and small mammals.
Q: Can Melica Stricta be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, Melica Stricta can be used for erosion control due to its dense root system.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Melica Stricta:
- Melica nutans
- Melica ciliata
- Melica californica
- Melica spectabilis
- Melica aristata
References
- USDA Plants Database. (2021). Melica stricta. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=MEST7
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Melica stricta. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278015&isprofile=0&basic=melica%20stricta
- Clemson Cooperative Extension. (2021). Melica stricta. Retrieved from https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/melica-stricta/
