Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Poaceae

Genus:

Melica

Species:

Melica nitens

USDA Symbol:

MENI

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

120 cm

Light Requirements:

Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

may,jun

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

well-drained, sandy to loamy soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

Prefers open woodlands and prairies

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from cold moist stratification for 30-60 days to break dormancy.