Siberian Melicgrass: A Graceful Non-Native Grass for Your Garden
If you’re looking to add some graceful movement and texture to your garden, you might have come across Siberian melicgrass (Melica altissima). This perennial grass brings an understated elegance to landscapes with its delicate, nodding seed heads that dance in the breeze. But before you decide whether this grass deserves a spot in your garden, let’s explore what makes it tick and whether it’s the right choice for your space.
What Is Siberian Melicgrass?
Siberian melicgrass is a perennial graminoid – that’s garden-speak for a grass or grass-like plant. As its common name suggests, this species originally hails from the cooler regions of Europe and Asia, particularly Siberia. Despite its exotic origins, it has found its way into North American gardens and has even established itself in the wild in some areas.
Where Does It Grow?
Currently, Melica altissima can be found growing in Ontario, Canada, as well as New York and Oklahoma in the United States. In Canada, it’s considered a waif – essentially a plant that shows up temporarily but doesn’t stick around permanently. In the lower 48 states, however, it has become more established, reproducing on its own and persisting in the landscape.
The Appeal of Siberian Melicgrass
What draws gardeners to this grass is its refined appearance. Siberian melicgrass produces tall, slender stems topped with graceful, drooping flower clusters that create a soft, almost ethereal effect in the garden. The fine-textured foliage provides excellent contrast to broader-leaved perennials, making it a valuable player in mixed borders and cottage-style gardens.
This grass typically grows in USDA hardiness zones 4-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. Once established, it’s quite drought tolerant and requires minimal maintenance – always a plus for busy gardeners!
Garden Design and Placement
Siberian melicgrass works beautifully in several garden settings:
- Perennial borders where its vertical structure adds height and texture
- Cottage gardens for a naturalistic, informal look
- Naturalized areas where it can blend with other grasses and wildflowers
- As specimen plantings where its graceful form can be appreciated
Growing Conditions and Care
One of the appealing aspects of Siberian melicgrass is its adaptability. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, making it versatile for different garden locations. Well-drained soil is important, as this grass doesn’t appreciate soggy conditions.
For planting and care:
- Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate
- Space plants appropriately to allow for their mature size
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots
- Once established, it becomes quite drought tolerant
- Minimal fertilization needed – too much can make the grass floppy
- Cut back in late winter or early spring before new growth appears
A Word About Native Status
Here’s something important to consider: Siberian melicgrass is not native to North America. While it’s not currently listed as invasive or problematic, it’s worth keeping in mind that non-native plants don’t provide the same ecological benefits as native species. If you’re focused on supporting local wildlife and creating habitat, you might want to consider native grass alternatives instead.
Some excellent native grass options that offer similar ornamental appeal include little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis), or various native Melica species if available in your region.
The Bottom Line
Siberian melicgrass can be a lovely addition to gardens where its graceful form and low-maintenance nature are appreciated. However, if you’re committed to native gardening or concerned about introducing non-native species, there are plenty of beautiful native grasses that can provide similar aesthetic benefits while supporting local ecosystems.
Whatever you choose, remember that the best garden is one that brings you joy while being mindful of the broader environmental picture. Happy gardening!
