Wood Bluegrass

(Poa nemoralis)

Wood Bluegrass (Poa nemoralis)

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Poa nemoralis Native Range
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Climate Requirements

• Precipitation 22" - 46"
• High Temp. 66°F - 76°F
• Low Temp. 20°F - 33°F

Summary

Poa nemoralis, commonly known as Wood Bluegrass, is a perennial grass that exhibits evergreen characteristics in milder climates but may be deciduous in colder regions. It is native to temperate forests and grasslands, often found in shaded areas, across the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, the Russian Far East, Central Asia, the Middle East, and parts of the Northeastern USA. Typically, it forms loose tufts and has a more delicate, slender appearance compared to other meadow grasses, with a slightly creeping habit. The leaves are fine-textured, narrow, and taper to a pointed tip. Poa nemoralis produces inflorescences with one to five flowers, which are in bloom from June to August, offering a subtle floral display.

This species is valued for its ability to thrive in shaded conditions and is often used for understory plantings, erosion control, and as a component of woodland garden designs. It is appreciated for its ease of maintenance and ability to form a ground cover in areas where other grasses might struggle. In cultivation, Wood Bluegrass prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to deep shade. While it is not known for any significant diseases or pests, its potential for invasiveness should be considered before planting, as it can spread beyond its intended area, especially in regions outside its native range. It is invasive in North America, where it spreads in forests and disturbed riparian sites and can increase fire risk.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-2.5 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to temperate forests and grasslands, often found in shaded areas, across the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, the Russian Far East, Central Asia, the Middle East, and parts of the Northeastern USA

Other Names

Common Names: Wood Meadow Grass, Lund-Rapgræs, Hain-Rispengras, Hainrispengras, Lehtonurmikka, Pâturin Des Bois, Fienarola Dei Boschi, Lundrapp, Schaduwgras, Lundgröe

Scientific Names: Poa nemoralis, Poa nemoralis var. glaucantha, Poa glauca var. glaucantha, Poa lapponica, Poa nemoralis var. nemoralis, Poa parnellii, Poa nemoralis var. firmula, Poa nemoralis var. rigidula, Poa nemoralis var. vulgaris

GBIF Accepted Name: Poa nemoralis L.