Prairie Junegrass
koeleria macrantha
Also known as: ["June Grass","Tall June Grass"]
Overview
A perennial grass native to North America, known for its fine-textured foliage and delicate, spike-like inflorescences.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Koeleria |
| Botanical Name: | Koeleria macrantha |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: open, sunny meadows or rock gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become less dense.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Avoid placing in hot, reflective surfaces that can scorch leaves. Outdoor placement is ideal for full sun exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyEasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 10–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water deeply to encourage deep roots; allow soil to dry between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with low fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold down to -30°F (-34°C) but prefers not to exceed 80°F (27°C) for extended periods.
Protect from extreme heat; ensure winter drainage; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; apply in spring only; use balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division. Seeds can be sown in spring or fall. Division is best done in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- For seeds: sow shallowly, keep moist, and thin seedlings. For division: dig up clump, divide into sections, and replant immediately.
Best Time: Early spring for division; spring or fall for seeds.
Environment
Warm (60–70°F or 15–21°C), bright indirect light, and moderate humidity for seeds. Division requires similar conditions to mature plants.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or garden soil for division.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; optional for cuttings or division.
Timeline
Seeds: germination in 2–4 weeks; division: establishment in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Hand trowel, pruners, seed trays, watering can.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in early spring; divide every 2–3 years; ensure divisions have roots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Hand-pull or snip dead foliage; shear lightly if clump becomes sparse.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Hand pruners or gloved hands.
Checklist
Remove dead growth; avoid cutting healthy stems; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it is not excessively larger than the root ball.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots if compacted; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor plants. Container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years if root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; browning or wilting in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if soil is waterlogged in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil to prevent frost heave; mulch lightly in winter to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Can lead to stunted growth, browning tips, and reduced vigor if exposed to prolonged high heat without adequate water.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply lightly, as Koeleria macrantha is not heavy feeder. Avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicKoeleria macrantha is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from exposure or ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicKoeleria macrantha is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from exposure or ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicKoeleria macrantha, commonly known as prairie junegrass, is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Koeleria macrantha suitable for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant and well-suited for xeriscaping.
Q: Does this grass attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it provides habitat and food for bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: It requires minimal watering once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 10–14 days, allowing s |
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