Smaller Cat's-tail
Phleum bertolonii · Poaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant smaller cat's-tail: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Poaceae (grasses)
- Type
- Perennial grass
- Adult size
- 20 to 60 cm tall
- Flowering
- May to July
- Foliage
- Deciduous, tender green
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20 °C)
- Origin
- Southern and Central Europe
- Growth
- Fast and vigorous
Care
Light exposure
Phleum bertolonii prefers a sunny to semi-shaded position, ideally in full sun for good foliage density. Avoid overly shaded areas which would slow down its growth.
Soil
This grass adapts to most soils but thrives better in a well-drained and slightly fertile substrate. It tolerates poor and chalky soils while appreciating some summer moisture.
Watering
Water regularly during active growth periods (spring and early summer) to keep the soil slightly moist. Once established in summer and during winter, reduce watering; this hardy grass tolerates occasional drought well.
Pruning and cleaning
Trim the clump in late winter or early spring before growth resumes, cutting back to 5-10 cm from the ground. You can also regularly clean out dried foliage to promote aeration and vigor.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer in spring to support growth. One annual application is generally sufficient; in poor soil, a light application in early summer can be helpful.
Health and pests
Phleum bertolonii is hardy and rarely affected by serious diseases. Ensure good drainage to prevent collar rot if humidity is excessively prolonged. Good air circulation prevents fungal problems.
Did you know?
Phleum bertolonii is called 'Timothy grass of Bertholo' in honor of Italian botanist Martino Bertoloni. Though little known to the general public, this grass long served as a hardy forage in Mediterranean and continental regions, valued for its ability to thrive on difficult terrain where other plants struggle.
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.