Overview

Sesleria heufleriana is a tufted grass like in the genus Sesleria, part of the Poaceae family, with evergreen 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. Sesleria heufleriana grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden and patio and container plants.

About

Sesleria heufleriana is a robust, evergreen grass that typically reaches a height of approximately 70 cm. It features a vertical growth pattern and narrow, vibrant green foliage in the spring, transitioning to a blue-green hue with silvery undersides during the summer months. Early in spring, slender stems emerge, showcasing dark purple spikelets that bloom into small white flowers.

About the genus

Sesleria consists of evergreen grasses that grow in clumps, featuring narrow leaves and compact flowering spikes that emerge in late spring or summer.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Sesleria

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Sesleria heufleriana size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass Like
Habit
Tufted
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Sesleria heufleriana

Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, well drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun or dappled shade. See ornamental grasses cultivation
Pruning
Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems as necessary
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or by division after flowering in spring
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Sesleria heufleriana?

Grow in moderately fertile, well drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun or dappled shade. See ornamental grasses cultivation.

Where is the best place to plant Sesleria heufleriana?

Sesleria heufleriana prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Sesleria heufleriana need?

Sesleria heufleriana 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 well-drained.

How do I prune Sesleria heufleriana?

Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems as necessary.

How big does Sesleria heufleriana grow?

Sesleria heufleriana 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.

Is Sesleria heufleriana hardy in the UK?

Sesleria heufleriana has a UK hardiness rating of H5.

How do I propagate Sesleria heufleriana?

Propagate by seed, or by division after flowering in spring.