About
Festuca heterophylla, the various-leaved fescue, is a graceful, shade-tolerant grass with both narrow and broader leaf blades on the same plant, producing airy flower panicles in summer. A charming and adaptable grass for a moist, partly shaded border or woodland edge.
About the genus
Festuca, the fescues, are a large and varied genus of grasses, ranging from fine-leaved, compact mound-forming alpines to large, arching border grasses. Many have attractively coloured, often blue-green or silver-blue, fine-textured leaves and are grown as ornamental foliage plants in borders, rock gardens and containers.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, prairie planting, containers.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in sun. Cut back in late winter.
PruningCut old growth to the base in late winter before new shoots emerge.
PropagationDivide established clumps in spring.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.