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Description
Poa Novae-Zelandiae, commonly known as New Zealand bluegrass or silver tussock, is a species of grass native to New Zealand. It is a cool-season grass that grows in clumps and forms dense tussocks up to 2 meters tall. It is a popular ornamental plant and is commonly used in landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Poa |
Appearance
Poa Novae-Zelandiae has long, narrow leaves that are blue-green in color and have a silvery sheen. The leaves are about 30-60 cm long and 2-5 mm wide. The plant produces tall, slender stems that can grow up to 2 meters in height. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow in color and are produced in dense clusters at the top of the stems.
Care Guide
Poa Novae-Zelandiae is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in zones 7-10. Watering: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. It should be watered deeply once a week, rather than frequent shallow watering. Fertilization: Poa Novae-Zelandiae does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not grow well in heavy clay soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.Hardiness Zones: Poa Novae-Zelandiae is hardy in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Poa Novae-Zelandiae is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and rust. These can be treated with fungicides. The plant can also be affected by aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Poa Novae-Zelandiae is native to New Zealand, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and wetlands. It is also found in Australia, where it has been introduced as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Poa Novae-Zelandiae a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Poa Novae-Zelandiae is a popular ornamental plant and is commonly used in landscaping.
Q: What kind of soil does Poa Novae-Zelandiae prefer?
A: Poa Novae-Zelandiae prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What zones is Poa Novae-Zelandiae hardy in?
A: Poa Novae-Zelandiae is hardy in zones 7-10.
Q: What pests and diseases can affect Poa Novae-Zelandiae?
A: Poa Novae-Zelandiae can be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot and rust, as well as aphids.
Related Plants
- Poa annua
- Poa pratensis
- Poa trivialis
References
- “Poa Novae-Zelandiae.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network, www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/poa-novae-zelandiae/.
- “New Zealand Bluegrass.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c297.
- “Poa Novae-Zelandiae.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/100890/i-poa-novae-zelandiae-i/details.
