Atlas Fescue

(Festuca mairei)

Atlas Fescue (Festuca mairei)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Festuca mairei, commonly known as Atlas Fescue, is an evergreen perennial grass native to North Africa, particularly in Morocco. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters), forming dense, fountain-like clumps. Atlas Fescue is characterized by its fine, blue-green foliage that provides year-round interest and texture in the garden. It does not have particularly showy flowers, but its inflorescences are subtle and add to its ornamental value during the summer months.

Atlas Fescue is valued for its drought tolerance and low maintenance requirements, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens, xeriscaping, and as an accent plant in rock gardens. It is also used in mass plantings for erosion control on slopes. This grass thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils. While it is generally disease-resistant, Atlas Fescue can suffer from rust in humid conditions or if overwatered. It is also important to avoid planting it in heavy, poorly drained soils to prevent root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1.5-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Very Low, Low
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Other Names

Common Names: Atlassvingel

Scientific Names: , Festuca mairei, Lolium mairei, Schedonorus mairei,

GBIF Accepted Name: Festuca mairei St.-Yves