Festuca roemeri (Roemer’s Fescue) Seed Packet WW

Historically the dominant native bunchgrass in the upland prairies west of the Cascades. The fine textured, bluish-green foliage and upright delicate seed heads lend a vertical element of motion, contrast, and airiness to your garden arrangement. Lovely. Depending on the specimen, the seed heads and stems may take on a reddish or purplish hue. Being a bunchgrass, it spreads slowly by an enlarging crown – not by aggressive stolons. Non-invasive – it plays nice with others.

• Family: Poaceae
• Per/Ann: Perennial
• Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade
• Zones: 5 to 10 Bloom: early summer
• Height: foliage 1 ft – seed heads 2-3 ft
• Habitat: Open, dry and occasionally moist sites – grasslands, prairies, meadows, woodland edges. Getting rarer due to habitat loss and now found mainly in pristine remnant upland prairies.
• Stratification: none-or very short
• Planting depth: surface; do not cover
• Seeding rate:

      Broadcasting: approx 60 seeds/sq ft

     Small pots/Spots in situ: a small “pinch”

Can be fall or spring sown–if spring sowing, earlier is better that mid to late spring as cool temps may enhance germination. Some literature suggests a cool period of 14 days is beneficial. Light may enhance germination.

Portland Plant List (Backyard Habitat Certification): Yes