Bouteloua gracilis
blue grama
A tufted deciduous grass to 60cm tall, with linear leaves and slender stems each bearing a few one-sided, horizontal, comb-like reddish-brown flower spikes in summer
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Brown Red | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Bouteloua can be annuals, rhizomatous or stoloniferous perennial grasses, with linear leaves and erect stems bearing distinctive flattened, horizontal flowering spikes
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- North America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a sharply drained soil soil in full sun. Avoid winter wet
Propagation
Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in spring. Alternatively divide clumps from mid-spring to early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Patio and container plants
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back overwintered material in early spring, just before new growth begins
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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