Hairy Melicgrass

Melica ciliata

Native to:
Albania, Algeria, Austria, Baleares, Baltic States, Belgium, Bulgaria, China, Corse, Czechia-Slovakia, East Aegean Is., Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Iran, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kriti, Krym, Lebanon-Syria, Madeira, Morocco, North Caucasus, NW. Balkan Pen., Portugal, Romania, Russia, Sardegna, Sicilia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Transcaucasus, Tunisia, Türkiye, Türkiye-in-Europe, Turkmenistan, Ukraine

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Poaceae
Genus:
Melica
Species:
Melica ciliata
USDA Symbol:
MECI13

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Graminoid
Height:
100 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul
Bloom Colors:
cream, white

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
dry, well-drained, calcareous soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
prefers rocky or sandy substrates

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 4-8 weeks to break dormancy; sow in spring.

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society