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Koeleria macrantha

Koeleria macrantha · Poaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant koeleria macrantha: 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 linear
Flowering
Spring to early summer (May-June)
Adult size
30 to 50 cm in height
Growth
Moderate
Hardiness
Very hardy, down to -20°C
Origin
Meadows of Europe and Asia
Soil type
Well-drained, dry to moderately moist

Care

Sunlight

Place slender fescue in full sun for optimal growth and better foliage color. It tolerates partial shade but remains more vigorous in bright conditions. Avoid overly shaded areas that slow its development.

Soil

This grass prefers well-drained, light and rather dry soil. It adapts well to poor soils and tolerates chalky soils nicely. Improve drainage if your soil is heavy by incorporating sand or gravel at planting.

Watering

Once established, slender fescue is very drought-tolerant and requires practically no watering. During the first year after planting, keep the soil slightly moist to encourage rooting. Avoid excess water which can cause rot.

Pruning and cutting

Cut the grass back to 5-10 cm from the ground in early spring, before new growth begins. This removes old foliage and stimulates regeneration. Use pruning shears or a mower for a neat, even cut.

Fertilizing

Slender fescue requires only minimal fertilizing. A light humus-based amendment in spring is generally sufficient. In poor soils, a balanced fertilizer applied at the start of the growing season can be beneficial, but remains optional.

Diseases and pests

This hardy grass is rarely affected by diseases. Excess moisture or poor drainage can encourage root rot. Avoid waterlogged areas and ensure good air circulation to prevent these problems.

Did you know?

Slender fescue gets its name from German botanist Georg Ludwig Koeler and the term 'macrantha' meaning 'large flowers.' This small ornamental grass is a key component of dry and semi-arid meadows across Europe, where it helps stabilize soils and provides valuable habitat for pollinating insects.

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.