Arctic Bluegrass

(Poa arctica)

Arctic Bluegrass (Poa arctica)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Poa arctica, commonly known as Arctic bluegrass or Arctic meadow grass, is a perennial herbaceous plant that thrives in the tundra and alpine meadows of the subarctic circumpolar region, extending into the high-altitude areas of the Rocky Mountains. It is often a dominant species in its native habitat, which includes moist meadows, riverbanks, and open, gravelly areas where it forms dense tufts or mats. This grass is well-adapted to cold environments and can be found in high-altitude regions, often responding positively to disturbance such as grazing or soil disruption.

Arctic bluegrass has a fine-textured appearance with narrow, blue-green leaves and produces inconspicuous greenish flowers during the short summer season. It is valued for its hardiness and ability to withstand extreme cold and is used in restoration projects and erosion control due to its dense root system. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance, thriving in full sun to partial shade and preferring moist, well-drained soils. While not commonly used in ornamental gardening, it can be a practical choice for challenging sites with cold climates.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 0.2-0.7 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to tundra and alpine meadows, moist meadows, riverbanks, and open, gravelly areas in the subarctic circumpolar region and high-altitude areas of the Rocky Mountains

Other Names

Common Names: Arctic Poa, Arctic Meadow Grass, 두메포아풀, Arctic Speargrass

Scientific Names: , Poa arctica, Poa abbreviata, Poa abbreviata, Poa arctica f. arctica, Poa cenisia subsp. arctica, Poa cenisia var. arctica, Poa pratensis var. gelida,

GBIF Accepted Name: