Silver hairgrass (Aira caryophyllea)

Silver hairgrass

Silver hairgrass (Aira caryophyllea) is an annual grass that will grow to 33 cm tall. Also called bunch grass, it grows in dense clumps and can be invasive. A warm season grass, it produces a flower spike with small tan-colored flowers.

Scientific classification

Species

Silver hairgrass (Aira caryophyllea)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

5 cm to 30 cm

Plant Height

Green

Leaf Color

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Silver hairgrass

Distribution of Silver hairgrass

Distribution Map

Silver hairgrass is present across a range of continents, primarily native to regions in Europe and parts of Northern Africa and the Middle East. It has also made its home in certain regions of East Africa. The introduction of silver hairgrass to areas in South and North America, East Asia, and Eastern Europe has expanded its reach. In some parts of the Southern Hemisphere, including temperate zones, silver hairgrass is sometimes thought to be less benign, potentially affecting local ecosystems where conditions allow for such impacts.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal vegetation, heath- and woodland, riparian habitats, wetlands, rock outcrops, heaths, rocks, dunes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Silver hairgrass

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Silver hairgrass originates from temperate regions and requires moderate moisture with consistent but non-waterlogged soil. Care involves weekly watering, particularly during its active growth season, to support its delicate foliage and root system, ensuring balance between hydration and drainage.

Fertilize: Silver hairgrass thrives with balanced nutrition fertilizers, receiving bi-monthly applications during the growing season and a high nitrogen boost occasionally. Lower frequency in winter and water soil before fertilizing to promote safe nutrient absorption while avoiding root burn. Young silver hairgrass requires more frequent fertilization for strength.

Pruning: Silver hairgrass features delicate, silvery tufts and requires minimal pruning. In early to late spring, remove dead growth and trim overgrown stems to promote health and shape. Regular pruning prevents excessive self-seeding. Use clean shears to avoid disease transmission.

Propagation: Silver hairgrass is an ornamental grass that prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Sow seeds lightly in a fine starter mix, ensuring consistent moisture. Once seedlings establish, transplant them to enhance garden texture with their airy, silver foliage.

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Images of Silver hairgrass

Distribution of Silver hairgrass

Care Guide for Silver hairgrass

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