Overview

Poa labillardierei is a bushy grass like in the genus Poa, part of the Poaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Poa labillardierei grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden and prairie planting. It is native to E & SE Australia.

About

Poa labillardierei is a semi-evergreen grass that develops a compact clump of slender, arching blue-green leaves reaching lengths of up to 60 cm. In mid-summer, it produces delicate sprays of purplish flowers that rise above the foliage.

About the genus

Poa consists of both annual and perennial grasses that develop clumps of narrow leaves along with airy flowering panicles during the summer months.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Poa

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Poa labillardierei size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass Like
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Prairie planting
Native to
E & SE Australia

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Poa labillardierei

Cultivation
Grow in fertile, moisture-retentive, but well-drained soil
Pruning
Trim in spring and comb out dead foliage
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by division in spring
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Rust can be a problem

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Poa labillardierei?

Grow in fertile, moisture-retentive, but well-drained soil.

Where is the best place to plant Poa labillardierei?

Poa labillardierei prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Poa labillardierei need?

Poa labillardierei is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.

How do I prune Poa labillardierei?

Trim in spring and comb out dead foliage.

How big does Poa labillardierei grow?

Poa labillardierei reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Poa labillardierei hardy in the UK?

Poa labillardierei has a UK hardiness rating of H4.

How do I propagate Poa labillardierei?

Propagate by seed or by division in spring.