False Melic
Schizachne purpurascens
- Native to:
- Canada, China, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Kuril Is., Labrador, Prince Edward I., Russia, United States, Virgin Islands
SB Johnny
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Poaceae
- Genus:
- Schizachne
- Species:
- Schizachne purpurascens
- USDA Symbol:
- SCPU
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Graminoid
- Height:
- 100 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Low
- Bloom Months:
- may,jun,jul
- Bloom Colors:
- purple, green
Wildlife Benefits
- Caterpillars:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Northern Pearly-Eye (Enodia anthedon)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- small mammals, birds
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- consistently moist
- Notes:
- prefers forest understory conditions
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
- Germination Time:
- 14–30 days
- Notes:
- Seeds benefit from cold moist stratification for 60-90 days to break dormancy.