Poverty Oatgrass (Danthonia spicata)

Poverty Oatgrass

Also known as: Poverty oat grass, Wild oat grass, Turkey strip, Wire grass

Poverty Oatgrass gets its name because it grows easily in poor soil. Its seeds can lay dormant until the ground is disturbed, making it one of the first plants to recolonize areas burned by forest fires.

Scientific classification

Species

Poverty Oatgrass (Danthonia spicata)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Grass

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

20 cm to 76 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Poverty Oatgrass

Distribution of Poverty Oatgrass

Distribution Map

Poverty Oatgrass is a grass typically found in temperate regions of North America, where it is native. It has also been introduced to parts of Europe, where it has since established a presence. Its adaptable nature allows it to thrive in a variety of environmental conditions across these major regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

A variety of forest and grassland ecosystems

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Poverty Oatgrass

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Poverty Oatgrass originates from temperate regions and prefers moderate moisture with well-drained soils. It requires consistent weekly watering and benefits from rainwater during the growing season, enhancing drought resilience and supporting healthy growth.

Fertilize: Enrich poverty Oatgrass soil annually with organic mulch or compost in spring to boost growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to maintain hardiness. Juvenile poverty Oatgrass benefits from frequent feedings, while mature plants need less. Integrate fertilizer gently to protect root systems and prevent overfertilization.

Pruning: Poverty Oatgrass thrives with early spring pruning, where dead stems are cut back to the base to stimulate new growth. Limit heavy cutting of healthy foliage. Annual pruning prevents overcrowding and enhances plant health, promoting vigorous, thick growth while maintaining its shape.

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Images of Poverty Oatgrass

Distribution of Poverty Oatgrass

Care Guide for Poverty Oatgrass

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