Corynephorus canescens

RHS Plant Profile
grey hair-grass
grey hair-grass visionspictures.com

Other common names

grey hair-grass

Synonyms

Aira canescens

Grass Like

A rare native grass, forming tight clumps of stiff, tightly rolled, bristle-like, silvery blue-green leaves. Delicate sprays of silvery spikelets, tinged purple, are produced on very fne stems in summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H5
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Poaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
Genus
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Found on coastal sand dunes, and requiring very well-drained, acid soil in full sun; tolerates poor soil, drought and salt-laden wind

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Gravel garden
  • Rock garden
  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

No pruning required; can cut back old growth in early spring to maintain appearance

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free