Grey Hair-grass
corynephorus canescens
Also known as: ["Grey Hair-grass","Canary Grey Hair-grass"]
Overview
A perennial grass species native to Europe, characterized by its greyish-green foliage and slender stems.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Corynephorus |
| Botanical Name: | Corynephorus canescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, dry slopes, or open sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy soil with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance to intense light; adjust for extreme heat by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in a spot with unobstructed sunlight.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun exposure; rotate regularly for even growth; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand or perlite if needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (15–25°C); tolerates cold down to -15°C but thrives in cooler conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize only during growing season.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; browning leaf tips in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if soil freezes; may lead to dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below -10°C.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow significantly in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCorynephorus canescens is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCorynephorus canescens is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCorynephorus canescens is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in typical quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Corynephorus canescens suitable for dry conditions?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in dry, sandy soils.
Q: Does Grey Hair-grass attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and butterflies due to its flowering habit.
Q: How often should Grey Hair-grass be watered?
A: It requires minimal watering, especially once established, as it is adapted to low-moisture environments.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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