Species Old Field Threeawn Grass
white flowers with light-green foliage and stems

Old Field Threeawn Grass

Aristida oligantha

Old Field Threeawn Grass (Aristida oligantha) is a grass species native to North America. It is an annual grass with erect stems and thin leaves, covered in tiny barbed spikes. It produces small yellow-green spikelets during the summer and fall, and prefers open, sunny areas such as roadsides and old fields. This hardy species can withstand drought and weather extremes, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping and roadside plantings. It is also appreciated for its showy seed heads, which can provide food and cover to wildlife.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

Old Field Threeawn Grass prefers well-draining soils and should be watered deeply once a week. It requires more water during dry periods when temperatures are high. To ensure your plant stays healthy, drench the soil with 1-2 inches of water every 7-14 days. Be sure to water in the early morning hours so any remaining moisture has a chance to evaporate throughout the day. Avoid getting the foliage wet as this could cause rot or fungal disease. If temperatures are consistently high or if you live in an area with high winds, increase watering to twice a week for optimal performance.

sunlight

Old Field Threeawn Grass is a grass species that grows in dry or sandy areas across the United States. This species is tolerant of a range of temperatures and prefers direct sunlight. Ideally, the grass should get 8-10 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, when temperatures soar, it is beneficial to provide some shade in order to protect the grass from excess heat. In addition, this species also requires ample amounts of water during periods of drought. It should be watered deeply but frequently, in order to prevent wilting. In terms of seasonal light, Old Field Threeawn Grass can handle strong summer sun in the warmer months and shorter days in the winter. Although it will go dormant during the colder months, the species can survive and return in early spring when temperatures start to increase.

pruning

Old Field Threeawn Grass (Aristida oligantha) should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new shoots begin to emerge. Prune the grass down to 4 to 6 inches, leaving up to an inch of new growth. Pruning can also be done in late summer, though this will generally only remove dead or dying foliage. If necessary, repeat the process of pruning in late summer and late winter to keep the grass looking neat and well groomed.