Festuca mairei (Atlas Fescue)

A giant in the world of the Fescues, Festuca mairei (Atlas Fescue) is a long-lived evergreen clumping grass which forms fountain-like mounds with a rich khaki green foliage.

A giant in the world of the Fescues, Festuca mairei (Atlas Fescue) is a long-lived evergreen clumping grass which forms fountain-like mounds up to 24-36 in. tall and wide (60-90 cm) with a rich khaki green foliage. Native to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, hence its common name, this handsome ornamental grass is mostly grown for its tidy foliage, which brings interest to the landscape all year around in warm winter areas. Its tiny flowers are inconspicuous.

  • Aside from its foliage interest, it is drought tolerant once established (although regular waterings would be appreciated), virtually trouble-free and requires low maintenance. This plant doesn't need to be cut back.
  • It thrives in full sun or part shade in well-drained soils with occasional watering. This plant is not fussy about soils and is heat tolerant.
  • Hardy, this cool-season grass keeps its foliage in warm winter climates.
  • This is a great candidate for beds, borders, rock gardens, edging, meadows, slopes or as a groundcover. It is considered as one of the best groundcovers for large areas.
  • Remove damaged foliage for a neat planting.

Requirements

Hardiness 4
– 9

Climate Zones 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Ornamental Grasses
Plant Family Festuca – Fescues
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spread 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spacing 24″
– 36″
(60cm
– 90cm)
Water Needs Low, Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Deer, Drought
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Edging, Ground Covers, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow