1. One-sided Bluegrass – Poa secunda
(PO-uh see-KUHN-duh)
http://ww1.clunet.edu/wf/images/c
hap/bjc-1397.jpg
Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. Illustrated flora of
the northern states and Canada. Vol. 1: 260.
Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
Native to: Western North America and all of CA. Found scattered on hillsides and grassy areas,
meadows, open areas in woodlands.
Perennial bunchgrass
mature height: to 2 ft.
mature width: 6-12 in.
Perennial cool season bunchgrass that grows in small tufts to robust mounds. Starts growth early
(winter/spring). Leaves sparse, fine, dark green. Dies back in summer. Short-lived (2-5 years).
Fairly shallow rooted. Yearly growth varies with weather.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms/fruits: Small, green grass-type flowers in spring. Summer seed heads showy (see pictures)
Uses in the garden: native lawns, prairies. Good on dry slopes – drought resistant. Excellent
nurse plant for longer-lived grasses. Good in mixes.
Sensible substitute for: non-native Poas (Kentucky Blue Grass)
Attracts: birds, insects, small mammals (food and cover)
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun best
Any; in nature often on poor, shallow or rocky soils
Some variants can tolerate summer water; best with no summer water; can stand
moderate winter/spring flooding
Low needs
Fire tolerant when dormant; not salt tolerant
Management: treat like other Blue Grasses. Protect from weed competition until established. Can
self-seed.
Propagation: from seed: fall-winter in prepared seedbed. No fertilizer until well-established.
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 2, 4, 10, 16
12/20/10
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