Contents
Description
Poa Gunnii, also known as Gunn’s bluegrass, is a type of grass that is commonly found in high-altitude areas. It is a cool-season grass that grows in clumps and has fine leaves that are blue-green in color. The grass can reach a height of up to 30 centimeters and has a spreading habit. Its scientific name is Poa laxa subsp. Gunnii.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Poa |
Appearance
Poa Gunnii has fine, blue-green leaves that are up to 30 centimeters in height. The grass grows in clumps and has a spreading habit. It produces slender flower spikes that can reach up to 60 centimeters in height. The flowers are small and green, and they appear in late spring or early summer.
Care Guide
Water
Poa Gunnii prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some dryness. Water the grass deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
Fertilize Poa Gunnii in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Soil
Poa Gunnii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The grass can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
Sunlight
Poa Gunnii prefers full to partial sunlight. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not flower as well.
Hardiness Zones
Poa Gunnii is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Poa Gunnii is relatively pest-free but can be affected by fungal diseases such as brown patch and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Poa Gunnii is native to the alpine regions of Australia and New Zealand. It grows in high-altitude areas, including mountains and plateaus. The grass can thrive in cold and harsh environments and is often used for revegetation and erosion control.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Poa Gunnii a good grass for lawns?
A: Poa Gunnii is not commonly used for lawns as it is a cool-season grass that is better suited to high-altitude environments. It is often used for revegetation and erosion control in these areas.
Q: Can Poa Gunnii tolerate drought?
A: Poa Gunnii can tolerate some dryness, but it prefers moist soil. Water the grass deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Q: How often should I fertilize Poa Gunnii?
A: Fertilize Poa Gunnii in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Does Poa Gunnii attract wildlife?
A: Poa Gunnii can attract wildlife such as birds and small mammals that feed on its seeds and foliage.
Related Plants
- Poa Alpina
- Poa Annua
- Poa Labillardierei
- Poa Sieberiana
References
- “Poa Gunnii.” PlantNet. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Poa~laxa+subsp.~gunnii.
- “Poa laxa subsp. Gunnii.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). https://anpsa.org.au/p-la-gun.html.
- “Gunn’s Bluegrass.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/gunns-bluegrass/gunns-bluegrass-care.htm.
