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Koeleria pyramidata

Koeleria pyramidata · Poaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

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

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ID card

Foliage
Semi-evergreen to evergreen
Flowering
May to July
Adult size
30 to 60 cm in height
Growth
Moderate
Hardiness
Very hardy (down to -20°C)
Origin
Central and southern Europe
Soil type
Well-drained, dry to moderately moist
Exposure
Full sun to partial shade

Care

Watering

Koeleria pyramidata is a grass that tolerates drought very well once established. Water moderately during planting to promote root development, then reduce water intake. In dry climates, occasional summer watering is sufficient; it handles dry spells well.

Exposure

Plant it in full sun to obtain a nice compact shape and better flowering. It also tolerates partial shade, but remains less dense. Avoid deep shade which weakens the plant.

Soil Preparation

Prepare well-drained soil, poor to moderately fertile. Improve if necessary with sand or gravel to prevent water stagnation. This grass thrives in chalky, rocky or lean soils, typical of its natural habitats.

Pruning and Cleanup

Cleaning the dry foliage at the end of winter is usually sufficient. Cut back faded stems to about 10-15 cm from the ground in March-April before new growth. Avoid aggressive cutting back that could weaken the clump.

Fertilization

No fertilizer is necessary: this grass prefers poor soils and does not tolerate excess organic matter. Excessive feeding would promote soft growth and reduce its natural hardiness.

Diseases and Pests

Koeleria pyramidata is very resistant to diseases and little affected by pests. Simply avoid stagnant moisture and ensure good air circulation to prevent any rare fungal problems.

Did you know?

Koeleria pyramidata is a relict grass from the dry continental climate of the Tertiary period, surviving for millions of years in Europe. Its name 'pyramidata' evokes the compact shape of its inflorescences, and it remains a key element of threatened dry grasslands and chalk meadows, making it a plant of major ecological interest for botanists and natural habitat conservators.

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.