Overview
Agrostis capillaris is a matforming grass like in the genus Agrostis, part of the Poaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0-0.1 metre wide, reaching full size in around 1 year. Agrostis capillaris grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and coastal. It is native to Europe, N Africa and SW Asia.
About
Commonly referred to as Brown Top or Common Bent grass, this tufted species is well-suited for upscale lawns maintained with regular mowing.
About the genus
Agrostis includes both annual and perennial grasses characterized by slender or bristle-like foliage and branched panicles that bear small flowers.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Agrostis
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Agrostis capillaris size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0-0.1 metre
- Time to full height
- 1 year
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Coastal
- Native to
- Europe, N Africa, SW Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Agrostis capillaris
- Cultivation
- By seed. Slow to establish but will become neat and dense if mown regularly
- Pruning
- Mow regularly
- Propagation
- Sow seed directly into weed-free, prepared soil in spring or early autumn
- Pest resistance
- Seed may be eaten by ants, birds, chafer grubs and Leatherjackets
- Disease resistance
- Algae, Dollar spot, Corticium disease, Fusarium patch, fungae
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Agrostis capillaris?
By seed. Slow to establish but will become neat and dense if mown regularly.
Where is the best place to plant Agrostis capillaris?
Agrostis capillaris prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Agrostis capillaris need?
Agrostis capillaris is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Agrostis capillaris?
Mow regularly.
How big does Agrostis capillaris grow?
Agrostis capillaris reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0-0.1 metre. It takes around 1 year to reach full size.
Is Agrostis capillaris hardy in the UK?
Agrostis capillaris has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Agrostis capillaris?
Sow seed directly into weed-free, prepared soil in spring or early autumn.