Species Bearded Shorthusk

Bearded Shorthusk

Brachyelytrum erectum

Also Known As - Northern Shorthusk
Bearded Shorthusk (Brachyelytrum erectum) is a cool-season grass native to the savannas of North America and parts of Europe. Its blade-shaped leaves form long-stemmed tufts which grow up to 30 cm tall and make it look like a miniature forest. In spring, the clusters of creamy-white flowers emerge up through the blades, blossoming into feathery plumes, which give the plant its name. These attractive blooms last until the summer, making Bearded Shorthusk an easy to care for ornamental grass. It prefers moist, but well-drained soil, and full sun to partial shade. Drought tolerant and hardy, it is the perfect addition to any summer garden.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

red,brown Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Easy

watering

Bearded Shorthusk (Brachyelytrum erectum) plants should be watered twice a week in hot weather, and once every 2 weeks in milder weather. When watering, saturate the soil with enough water so that it is evenly moistened but not soaked. Allow soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.

sunlight

Bearded Shorthusk thrives in sunny areas, and requires direct or dappled sunlight for 6-7 hours a day for optimal growth and health. The light should be evenly distributed throughout the day, with a focus on providing full sun during the brightest part of the afternoon. Morning sun is also beneficial, as it helps the leaves to reach their maximum temperature before the heat of the day. During the hottest part of the summer, the plant may require some light shade to help protect it from the intense midday sun. While no special lighting is required to grow it, avoiding prolonged periods of shade will help ensure the health and prosperity of the plant.

pruning

Bearded Shorthusk should be pruned annually, in late winter or early spring. Pruning should incorporate removing dead, diseased or crisscrossing stems, as well as any foliage that may be shading other plants. Pruning will help encourage the plant’s growth and flowering, and should eliminate any areas of overcrowding. Stems should be cut back to just above the ground level, and the remaining foliage should be cut back by 1/3. The abundance of flowers produced by the Bearded Shorthusk will also make it more visually attractive.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Bearded Shorthusk typically starts flowering in May.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Brachyelytrum erectum (Bearded Shorthusk) typically begins in July and ends in August.