Marsh Bluegrass

(Poa leptocoma)

Marsh Bluegrass (Poa leptocoma)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 17" - 55"
High Temp. 59°F - 76°F
Low Temp. 1°F - 19°F

Summary

Poa leptocoma, commonly known as marsh bluegrass or western bog bluegrass, is a perennial grass native to wet meadows, marshes, and the banks of lakes, ponds, and streams in western North America, ranging from Alaska to New Mexico, and is also present in the Kamchatka Peninsula of Russia. It thrives in subalpine and alpine climates, often found at elevations where moisture is abundant. Marsh bluegrass typically forms loose clumps with stems that can reach heights of 28 to 39 inches. The spikelets exhibit a range of colors from green to blue to dark purple, which can add subtle color variation to naturalistic plantings.

This species is valued for its ability to grow in wet conditions and is often used in restoration projects to stabilize soil and support wetland ecosystems. It is also suitable for ornamental use in water gardens or as part of a rain garden planting scheme. Poa leptocoma prefers consistently moist soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. While it is not commonly available in the horticultural trade, it can be an important component of native plantings and meadow gardens. CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wet meadows, marshes, and the banks of lakes, ponds, and streams in subalpine and alpine climates

Other Names

Common Names: Wiry Bluegrass, Marsh Bluegrass, Western Bog Bluegrass

Scientific Names: Poa leptocoma, Poa barguzinensis, Poa crandallii, Poa flavidula, Poa leptocoma var. leptocoma, Poa leptocoma var. scabrinervis, Poa nivicola var. flavidula, Poa stenantha var. leptocoma, Poa taimyrensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Poa leptocoma