Overview
Melica ciliata is a tufted grass like in the genus Melica, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Melica ciliata grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. It is low maintenance. It is native to Albania, Algeria, Austria, Baleares, Baltic States, Belgium, Bulgaria, Corse, Czechia-Slovakia, East Aegean Is., Finland and France.
About
Melica ciliata, commonly known as silky-spike melic, is a tufted, deciduous grass-like plant within the Melica genus. It typically grows between 0.5 and 1 metre tall, with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full height in two to five years. This cultivar thrives in full sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types, including chalk, loam, and sand, with a preference for well-drained conditions and a range of soil pH from acid to alkaline. It is low maintenance and offers seasonal interest throughout spring, summer, and winter.
About the genus
Melica is a genus of perennial grasses known generally as melic or melic grass. They are found in most temperate regions of the world.
Wikipedia contributors, "Melica", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Melica
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Melica
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
Plant details
Melica ciliata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Native to
- Albania, Algeria, Austria, Baleares, Baltic States, Belgium, Bulgaria, Corse, Czechia-Slovakia, East Aegean Is., Finland, France
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Melica ciliata?
Melica ciliata prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Melica ciliata need?
Melica ciliata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Melica ciliata grow?
Melica ciliata reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
More in the Melica genus
Browse all Melica →
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