Overview
Melica uniflora f. albida is a clump forming, matforming, spreading branched grass like in the genus Melica, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Melica uniflora f. albida grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit and low maintenance. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden and patio and container plants.
About
Melica uniflora f. albida is a low-growing perennial grass characterized by its fine, green foliage that dies back in winter. This species, indigenous to the UK, produces slender green flower stems that bear white flowers accented with yellow stamens, typically blooming from June through July.
About the genus
Melica consists of perennial grasses that are deciduous and form clumps. They feature slender, soft leaves and have arching stems that support narrow panicles of flattened spikelets during the summer months.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Melica
- Sunlight
- Full shade, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Melica uniflora f. albida size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Clump forming, Matforming, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Melica uniflora f. albida
- Cultivation
- Ideal for a partly shaded position such as the edge of a woodland but will tolerate full shade. Avoid waterlogged soil, especially in winter. Thrives in a dryish alkaline soil
- Pruning
- Cut back previous year's growth in February
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Melica uniflora f. albida?
Ideal for a partly shaded position such as the edge of a woodland but will tolerate full shade. Avoid waterlogged soil, especially in winter. Thrives in a dryish alkaline soil.
Where is the best place to plant Melica uniflora f. albida?
Melica uniflora f. albida prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Melica uniflora f. albida need?
Melica uniflora f. albida is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Melica uniflora f. albida?
Cut back previous year's growth in February.
How big does Melica uniflora f. albida grow?
Melica uniflora f. albida reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Melica uniflora f. albida hardy in the UK?
Melica uniflora f. albida has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Melica uniflora f. albida?
Propagate by seed or division.