Curved hardgrass (Parapholis incurva)

Curved hardgrass

Also known as: Coastal barb grass, Curved parapholis

Curved hardgrass (Parapholis incurva) is an annual grass that blooms in spring with cylinder-shaped spikes of green or purple flowers. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia and is also called coast barbgrass. Thrives in full sun and prefers sandy soil. It is salt-tolerant.

Scientific classification

Species

Curved hardgrass (Parapholis incurva)

Grasses, sedges and allies

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Grass

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Late summer

Harvest Time

10 cm to 40 cm

Plant Height

4 cm to 10 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green, Purple, Brown

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Curved hardgrass

Distribution of Curved hardgrass

Distribution Map

Curved hardgrass thrives across a broad range of environments but is native mainly to the Mediterranean basin, parts of South and Central Asia, and portions of the Middle East. Its reach has extended to various regions on other continents, where it is often found in temperate zones. As an introduced species, curved hardgrass has established itself in the Americas, parts of East Asia, and is also present in some countries within Southern Africa, Europe, and Oceania.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Seashores, coastal salt marshes, introduced

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Curved hardgrass

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Curved hardgrass thrives in coastal, saline environments with high drought and salt tolerance. It prefers infrequent yet thorough watering, ideally weekly. As an outdoor plant along shorelines, curved hardgrass retains moisture in its foliage during high-salinity events, enhancing its resilience.

Pruning: Curved hardgrass features a dense, tufted grass-like form. Prune in early to late spring, cutting back up to one-third to promote new growth and maintain compactness. Use sharp, sanitized tools to prevent disease. For further guidance, consult RHS and university horticultural resources.

Propagation: Curved hardgrass establishes easily via sowing in well-draining soil with consistent moisture. Seeds should be sown shallowly for light exposure, promoting germination. Post-germination, curved hardgrass needs minimal care but must be shielded from extreme conditions until fully established.

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