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Corynephorus canescens

Corynephorus canescens · Poaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant corynephorus canescens: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Evergreen, fine and glaucous
Flowering
June to August
Adult size
20 to 40 cm in height
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Very hardy, down to -15 °C
Origin
Western and central Europe
Soil type
Sandy, well-drained, poor to acidic

Care

Exposure

Place your corynephora in full sun for optimal growth. It also tolerates partial shade but will be less dense there. This grass appreciates windy and bright locations.

Soil

This grass prefers sandy, poor and well-drained soils. It adapts perfectly to acidic soils and tolerates heavy or wet soils poorly. Adding coarse sand will improve drainage if needed.

Watering

Once established, corynephora is very drought-tolerant. Water moderately when planting, then gradually reduce. It doesn't require regular watering in temperate climates, except during prolonged dry spells.

Pruning and cutting

Cut back hard in spring (March-April) to remove dried foliage. You can also trim lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape. Avoid cutting too late in autumn.

Fertilizing

Corynephora doesn't require regular fertilizer as it prefers poor soils. Excess nitrogen would promote weak and soft growth. A light mulch of sand in autumn is more than sufficient.

Diseases and pests

This grass is rarely affected by disease thanks to its natural hardiness. Excessive moisture can promote root rot: ensure impeccable drainage. No major pests generally affect it.

Did you know?

Corynephora is characterized by its delicate flower heads with two small bracts (glumelles) that reflect light, creating a remarkable silvery effect in the sun. Once used to stabilize coastal dunes in northern Europe, this grass naturally forms important stands on poor sandy soils there.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.