Muttongrass

(Poa fendleriana)

Muttongrass (Poa fendleriana)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Poa fendleriana, commonly known as Muttongrass, is a perennial grass native to open woodlands, grasslands, and meadows in the Western USA and Canada, often found at higher elevations. It typically grows up to 70 centimeters tall with a bunchgrass habit, featuring narrow panicles that can bear over 100 spikelets, each crowded with erect branches. The plant is notable for its dioecious nature, having male and female flowers on separate plants. Some populations are exclusively female, reproducing asexually through apomixis, while sexually reproducing populations are found in warmer climates with summer precipitation. The dead sheath bases persist on the plant, contributing to its distinctive appearance.

Muttongrass is valued for its adaptability to a range of soil types and its ability to thrive with minimal water, making it suitable for xeriscaping and restoration projects. It is often used in naturalized plantings and as a ground cover in dry, open areas. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it does not tolerate full shade well. This grass is relatively low-maintenance, requiring little water once established and growing in soils with fast to medium drainage. It is not commonly affected by diseases or pests, but it can be sensitive to overwatering and poor drainage.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 0.8-1.7 feet
  • Width: 0.4-0.8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, grasslands, and meadows, often at higher elevations

Other Names

Common Names: Fendler’s Bluegrass, Vasey’s Muttongrass, Mutton Bluegrass, Pâturin De Fendler

Scientific Names: , Poa fendleriana, Poa fendlerana, Eragrostis fendleriana, Uralepis pooides, Atropis fendleriana, Panicularia fendleriana, Puccinellia fendleriana, Uralepis poaeoides, Uralepis poioides,

GBIF Accepted Name: Poa fendleriana (Steud.) Vasey