Melica altissima 'Alba'
Siberian melic
An unassuming but beautiful grass that produces its airy sprays of white, grain-like flowers on slender stems that catch the slightest breeze. Melica altissima 'Alba' flowers earlier than many of the other ornamental grasses and it blends effortlessly with many different perennials and ferns. Tactile as well as attractive, it will add softness to the planting scheme.
How to care for Melica altissima Alba:
Plant Melica in fertile, well-drained soil in sun or light shade. Space plants about 30-45cm (12-18in) apart to allow the upright, clump-forming habit to develop. Water regularly during the first growing season to help roots establish, but once settled it becomes more drought tolerant.
Cut back old stems and foliage to the base in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth. Siberian melic is generally low-maintenance, doesn’t need staking, and can self-seed gently in the right conditions. Divide clumps every few years in spring if they become congested.
Cut back old stems and foliage to the base in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth. Siberian melic is generally low-maintenance, doesn’t need staking, and can self-seed gently in the right conditions. Divide clumps every few years in spring if they become congested.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.9m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
9cm pot
£14.99
available to order from autumn
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3 × 9cm pots
£32.99
£11.00 each
available to order from autumn
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6 × 9cm pots
£49.99
£8.33 each
available to order from autumn
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