Bristly dogstail grass
Cynosurus echinatus · Poaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant bristly dogstail grass: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Poaceae (grasses)
- Form
- Annual or biennial grass
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (April-June)
- Foliage
- Deciduous, light green
- Hardiness
- Hardy, tolerates cold temperatures
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin and Southern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained soil, tolerates poor soils
Care
Light exposure
Bristly finger grass thrives in direct sunlight or partial shade. It appreciates bright, well-ventilated locations. Avoid overly shaded areas that would slow its growth.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing period, particularly during prolonged droughts. Once established, this grass tolerates moderate dry spells. Avoid waterlogging, which would encourage rotting.
Soil
Prefer well-drained soil, even if rocky or poor. Bristly finger grass adapts to various soil textures and doesn't require rich soil. Compacted soil isn't problematic for this hardy species.
Pruning and cutting
Let the plant flower naturally to enjoy its characteristic bristly spikes. You can mow after flowering or let it self-seed. At the end of the season, remove dried foliage for a neater appearance.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is generally necessary. This grass grows well in poor soil and thrives without nutritional supplements. A light application in spring can boost vigor if the soil is particularly depleted.
Diseases and pests
Bristly finger grass is rarely affected by diseases. It remains robust against fungi and insects. Good air circulation and adequate drainage prevent any health problems.
Did you know?
Bristly finger grass owes its scientific name 'echinatus' to the Greek word 'echinos' (hedgehog): its flowering spikes are indeed covered with stiff bristles that resemble a hedgehog's spines. Traditionally found in Mediterranean dry meadows, it has long served as appreciated fodder in arid regions where green pastures are scarce.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Tufted hair grassDeschampsia cespitosa
- Wavy hair-grassAvenella flexuosa
- Purple moor-grassMolinia caerulea
- Reed canary-grassPhalaris arundinacea
- Common quaking grassBriza media
- Creeping soft-grassHolcus mollis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.