Melica uniflora f. albida
wood melick
Bringing a light, airy feel to tricky shadier spots, this delicate creeping grass forms a soft drift of fresh green foliage that brightens even dry, dim corners. Its gently spreading habit makes it ideal for weaving through planting, adding a natural, relaxed look beneath the canopies of large shrubs or trees where many plants struggle to establish.
In early summer, Melica uniflora f. albida sends up slender stems topped with tiny, rice-like buds that open into subtle white flowers with soft yellow stamens, creating a fine, shimmering effect that catches the eye without overpowering its neighbours. It works beautifully among ferns, hostas, and other shade lovers, offering texture and movement through the season while staying easy to manage and reliable.
In early summer, Melica uniflora f. albida sends up slender stems topped with tiny, rice-like buds that open into subtle white flowers with soft yellow stamens, creating a fine, shimmering effect that catches the eye without overpowering its neighbours. It works beautifully among ferns, hostas, and other shade lovers, offering texture and movement through the season while staying easy to manage and reliable.
How to care for Melica uniflora f. albida:
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.
Sowing instructions:
Sow seed in spring or early autumn onto moist, free-draining compost, covering very lightly with a fine layer of compost or vermiculite. Keep in a cool, shaded spot and maintain even moisture; germination can be a bit slow and slow and uneven, so patience helps. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, pot them on and grow steadily before planting out.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.6m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
approx 50 seeds
£3.99
available to order from summer
Unavailable
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