Fescue: The Mysterious Native Grass You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
Meet Schedonorus ×aschersonianus, a native fescue that’s about as elusive as a unicorn in the gardening world. If you’re scratching your head wondering what exactly this plant is, you’re not alone – this particular species is one of those botanical mysteries that even seasoned gardeners rarely encounter.
What Exactly Is This Fescue?
This perennial grass is actually a hybrid species (that little × in the name is the giveaway), which means it’s the result of two different fescue species getting together and creating something new. It belongs to the grass family and shares the typical characteristics you’d expect from a fescue – it’s hardy, it’s perennial, and it’s definitely grass-like in appearance.
You might also see this plant listed under its synonym Festuca ×aschersoniana, because botanists love to keep us on our toes with name changes.
Where Does It Call Home?
This native fescue has been documented in just two states: New York and South Carolina. That’s quite a geographic leap, which isn’t unusual for native plants that have specific habitat requirements or limited populations.
The Challenge of Growing Unknown Natives
Here’s where things get tricky. While we know this fescue is native to the United States, information about its specific growing requirements, appearance, and garden performance is practically nonexistent in standard horticultural references. This presents a unique challenge for native plant enthusiasts.
Should You Try to Grow It?
The honest answer? Probably not, and here’s why:
- Seeds or plants are extremely difficult, if not impossible, to source commercially
- Without knowing its specific habitat requirements, successful cultivation would be mostly guesswork
- Its rarity might indicate it has very specialized growing conditions
- There are many other well-documented native fescues that would be better choices
Better Native Fescue Alternatives
Instead of chasing this botanical unicorn, consider these well-documented native fescue alternatives that will give you similar ecological benefits:
- Fine fescue species native to your region
- Buffalo grass (in appropriate climates)
- Other native bunch grasses suited to your area
The Takeaway for Native Plant Gardeners
Schedonorus ×aschersonianus serves as a perfect example of why it’s important to work with native plants that are well-understood and readily available. While every native species has value in the ecosystem, the most successful native gardens are built with plants that we understand well enough to grow successfully.
If you’re passionate about supporting native plant diversity, focus your energy on the many documented native grasses that are available through reputable native plant nurseries. You’ll have much better success, and you’ll still be supporting local ecosystems with plants that are proven performers in garden settings.
Sometimes the most responsible thing we can do as native plant gardeners is to admire rare species from afar and stick with the natives we can actually grow well. Your local ecosystem will thank you for it!
