Species Alpine Foxtail

Alpine Foxtail

Alopecurus magellanicus

Alpine Foxtail is a perennial grass native to South America and high-altitude areas of New Zealand. It has an erect growth habit with narrow leaves that are greenish-blue in colour. Its flower heads are cylindrical, composed of fine hairlike spikelets, which are particularly striking when seen in large clumps in the wild. Growing to an average height of about 20 cm, it is ideal for gardens looking for something low-maintenance and eye-catching. Alpine Foxtail will thrive in most soils, best with some moisture during dry spells, and prefers partial shade to full sun. Its tufts of feathery heading will attract bees and birds to the garden and is sure to captivate with its silvery-blue colour and gentle movement.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Alpine Foxtail should be watered on a regular basis, preferably around once a week, though this could vary depending upon the season and the moisture-holding capacity of your soil. During periods of dry weather, the plants should be checked for moisture and given water when needed. Too much water should be avoided in order to prevent root rot and other damage while providing sufficient water to ensure healthy growth and flowering.

sunlight

Alpine Foxtail needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. It is best for it to receive these hours of direct sunlight during the morning or early afternoon. This species can tolerate up to 8 hours of sunlight, but it will need to have access to partial shade in the hot afternoon hours in order to prevent its leaves from burning. During the winter months, when the sunlight is weak, Alpine Foxtail may need up to 8 hours a day in order to thrive.

pruning

For an Alpine Foxtail, pruning should be light and minimal, and should occur at the end of the season when the plant is dormant. In other words, pruning should take place in the late fall or winter months. If the plant has become leggy or overgrown you may want to prune it back then. Simply remove the overgrown stems by cutting them back at the desired length with a sharp pair of pruning shears. This will help to maintain the shape and fullness of the plant and encourage dense foliage growth in the coming season.