Blue Fescue

( Festuca ovina `Glauca')

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf Height: 6 to 12 inches
Shape: Spreading
Clumps of grassy foliage are silvery-blue and thread like. Small plumes appear in summer. This ornamental grass is a herbaceous perennial.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 4 to 9 Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Moist to dry
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 7.3

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include ground cover and specimen plant.

Planting Notes:

* Place plants 18 inches apart.
* Plant in well-drained soil.

Care:

* This plant rarely needs any care.
* Can cut back in spring if it becomes shabby looking.
* Plants benefit from division every few years.

Problems:

* Free from insect pests.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.
Cultivars of FESTUCA OVINA: * No important cultivars.

Comments:

* Ornamental grasses of all kinds are increasing in popularity.
* Often used as a ground cover and for erosion control.
* Suitable for use as an edging plant along sidewalks and flower beds.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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