Wideleaf Polargrass

(Arctagrostis latifolia)

Wideleaf Polargrass (Arctagrostis latifolia)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 6" - 23"
High Temp. 47°F - 70°F
Low Temp. -33°F - 3°F

Summary

Arctagrostis latifolia, commonly known as wideleaf polargrass, is a perennial grass native to Arctic tundra and cold temperate grasslands with a circumpolar distribution. It is adapted to the harsh conditions of the high Arctic, playing a crucial role in ecosystem stability and serving as a valuable food source for native wildlife. Wideleaf polargrass typically exhibits a clumping growth form and can withstand extreme cold and wind exposure.

Wideleaf polargrass is notable for its resilience to cold temperatures and its ability to establish quickly in disturbed soils, making it an important species for revegetation projects in its native range. It is not commonly used in typical garden settings due to its specialized habitat requirements. In cultivation, it requires conditions that mimic its native tundra environment, including well-drained soils and full sun exposure. While not prone to many diseases, its limited distribution outside of Arctic regions means it is not well-studied in terms of potential horticultural problems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Arctic tundra and cold temperate grasslands

Other Names

Common Names: Broad-leaved Arctic Grass, Russian Grass, Polar Grass, Wideleaf Polargrass, Wide-Leaved Polargrass, Broad-Leaved Arctic Bent, Wide-leaved Arctic Reed Grass

Scientific Names: Arctagrostis latifolia, Agrostis paradoxa, Arctagrostis anadyrensis, Arctagrostis aristulata, Arctagrostis glauca, Arctagrostis latifolia f. aristata, Arctagrostis latifolia f. latifolia, Arctagrostis latifolia subsp. gigantea, Arctagrostis latifolia subsp. nahanniensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Arctagrostis latifolia