Description of Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) P.Beauv. var. oliveri C.E.Hubb.
Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) P.Beauv. var. oliveri C.E.Hubb. is a cool-season perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is a subspecies of Deschampsia caespitosa, commonly known as tufted hairgrass. The plant is native to high elevations in western North America, including the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Northwest.
Common Names
Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) P.Beauv. var. oliveri C.E.Hubb. is commonly known as Oliver's hairgrass, mountain hairgrass, and dwarf hairgrass.
Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 20-80 cm and has a clumping growth habit. The leaves are narrow, linear, and rough to the touch, and they grow up to 30 cm long. The inflorescence of the plant is a branching panicle that can reach up to 25 cm long. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and they occur in tight clusters, giving the plant a fluffy appearance. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall.
Uses
Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) P.Beauv. var. oliveri C.E.Hubb. is commonly used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance. The plant is also used for soil stabilization in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and mine sites.
Light Conditions
The Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) P.Beauv. var. oliveri C.E.Hubb. grows well in full sun to partial shade conditions. It prefers moderate light conditions and may not thrive well in areas with intense sunlight or as a full shade plant.
Temperature Conditions
The Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) P.Beauv. var. oliveri C.E.Hubb. can grow in a wide range of temperatures. The plant requires cool to temperate climatic conditions for optimal growth. The optimum temperature for this plant ranges from 10-22 degrees Celsius, beyond which growth may be affected. In cold regions, it can withstand freezing temperatures and snow cover for an extended period.
Soil Requirements
This variety of Deschampsia caespitosa grows well in slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil moisture conditions but prefers well-draining soils. It does not grow well in waterlogged soils, and prolonged periods of 'wet feet' may affect its growth. The plant can thrive in a range of soil textures, but it prefers loamy or sandy loam soils rich in organic matter. Nutrient requirements for the plant are moderate, and it does not need any additional fertilizers.
Cultivation
Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) P.Beauv. var. oliveri C.E.Hubb. can be propagated via seeds or by division in fall or early spring. It can thrive in full sun to partial shade, but it prefers moist and cool environments. It thrives in well-drained soils with a pH of 5.0-7.5.
Watering Needs
Deschampsia caespitosa requires regular watering to keep its soil moist. It is essential, especially for young plants, to water them weekly until they establish their roots. The watering frequency can be reduced when the plant matures, but it still needs regular watering to keep it healthy and lush.
Fertilization
Deschampsia caespitosa does not need much fertilization to grow healthy. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied once per year in the early spring. Applying a more substantial amount of fertilizer can damage the plant.
Pruning
Deschampsia caespitosa does not require pruning, but it is recommended to cut off any withered leaves, stems, or flowers. This ensures the plant looks neat and its energy goes to growing healthy stems instead of dead parts. When pruning, it is essential to use a sharp and clean pair of shears to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Deschampsia caespitosa var. oliveri
Deschampsia caespitosa var. oliveri can be propagated by seed or division.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Deschampsia caespitosa var. oliveri can be sown in the autumn or spring. In the autumn, the seeds have a dormancy period and require a period of cold stratification before they will germinate. The seeds can be mixed with moist sand and stored in the refrigerator for several weeks before sowing. In the spring, the seeds can be sown directly into soil after the last frost. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate.
Propagation by Division
The plant can be propagated by division in the spring. The clumps of the plant can be carefully dug up and divided into sections using a sharp knife or spade. Each section should have several shoots and a good root system. The sections can then be replanted into prepared soil and watered well.
Disease Management
Deschampsia caespitosa (L.) P.Beauv. var. oliveri C.E.Hubb. is generally resistant to most diseases but can occasionally be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf and stem rust. These can be managed by removal and destruction of infected plant material and the use of fungicides such as copper or sulfur-based products.
Pest Management
The plant can be affected by pests such as aphids, spider mites, and slugs. Aphids and spider mites can be managed by washing the plants with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soaps. Slugs can be managed by reducing the amount of moisture around the plant and using physical barriers such as copper tape or diatomaceous earth to prevent them from reaching the plant.
