Overview
Bouteloua gracilis is a grass in the genus Bouteloua, part of the Poaceae family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Bouteloua gracilis grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is native to North America.
About the genus
Bouteloua is a genus of plants in the grass family Poaceae. Members of the genus are commonly known as grama grass.
Wikipedia contributors, "Bouteloua", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Bouteloua
In the garden
Bouteloua gracilis originates from North America and establishes as a compact grass to about 0.6 m. It suits open, sunny locations and was developed by ecosystems across prairie and plain landscapes where a low, steady grassy cover is typical. For cultivation in the UK place plants in full sun and choose a spot with freely draining soil; sandy, loamy or clay soils are all acceptable so long as they are not waterlogged. Soil may be moist but should remain well-drained. The plant carries an H5 rating for UK hardiness (hardy) and corresponds roughly to USDA zones 7–10, so it will withstand ordinary UK winters in most areas but prefers a sunny, sheltered aspect in the coldest sites. Use Bouteloua gracilis where a low, architectural grass is needed: sunny borders, gravel areas, or mixed grass plantings where a narrow, upright grass habit is useful without taking much vertical space. Its modest height makes it suitable for front-of-border planting or naturalistic drifts. It flowers from July to September.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Bouteloua
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Bouteloua gracilis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass
- Height
- 0.6 m
- Native to
- North America
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Bouteloua gracilis?
Bouteloua gracilis prefers full sun.
What soil does Bouteloua gracilis need?
Bouteloua gracilis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Bouteloua gracilis grow?
Bouteloua gracilis reaches a height of 0.6 m.
Is Bouteloua gracilis hardy in the UK?
Bouteloua gracilis has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
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