Polypogon viridis
Polypogon viridis · Poaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant polypogon viridis: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Poaceae (grasses)
- Plant type
- Annual or perennial ornamental grass depending on climate
- Mature size
- 30 to 60 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, fine and linear, light green
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn, dense and feathery spikes
- Exposure
- Full sun to partial shade
- Hardiness
- Moderate, freezes in cold regions
- Origin
- Mediterranean and temperate regions
Care
Exposure
Green Polypogon thrives in full sun, which promotes dense growth and well-colored spikes. Partial shade is acceptable, but reduces the plant's vigor. Place it in an open location for a beautiful silhouette.
Watering
Keep the soil moist during growth, especially in dry or hot periods. Water regularly without waterlogging, as excess water promotes fungal diseases. Once established, the plant tolerates short periods of water deficit better.
Soil and planting
Green Polypogon adapts to most soils, but prefers a well-drained, light substrate that isn't too chalky. Enrich the soil with compost or potting soil at planting for a better start. Avoid waterlogged areas.
Fertilizing
A balanced fertilizer application in spring generally suffices for ornamental grasses. In poor soil, a lightly dosed NPK fertilizer stimulates growth without excess soft foliage. Avoid excess to preserve natural elegance.
Pruning and cleanup
Cut the plant back to the ground in late winter or early spring, before growth resumes. Remove dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain aesthetics. This grass doesn't require pruning during the growing season.
Diseases and pests
Green Polypogon is generally robust, but dreads stagnant moisture which causes root rot or fungal issues. Ensure good drainage and air circulation. Few pests specifically target it.
Did you know?
Green Polypogon, though understated, is among those wild grasses that landscapers are rediscovering to create natural and airy compositions. Its dense, feathery spikes resemble tiny fox tails, hence its English name 'Green Bristlegrass,' and sway gracefully with the slightest breeze, bringing movement to the garden.
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.