Somerset Hair Grass: A Mysterious Native Grass Worth Knowing
If you’ve stumbled across the name Somerset hair grass (Koeleria vallesiana) in your native plant research, you’re likely encountering one of the more elusive members of the grass family. This particular species represents an interesting puzzle in the world of native grasses, and here’s what we know—and don’t know—about this intriguing plant.
What is Somerset Hair Grass?
Somerset hair grass belongs to the Koeleria genus, a group of fine-textured perennial grasses in the Poaceae family. Like its better-known relatives, this grass likely features the characteristic narrow leaves and delicate flower heads that give hair grasses their common name. However, specific information about Koeleria vallesiana is remarkably scarce in botanical literature, making it something of a botanical mystery.
The Challenge of Limited Information
Here’s where things get interesting (and a bit frustrating for curious gardeners): comprehensive details about Somerset hair grass are extremely limited. Unlike well-documented native grasses such as little bluestem or buffalo grass, Koeleria vallesiana appears in very few botanical databases or gardening resources. This could mean several things:
- It may be a very localized or rare species
- The name might be a regional variant or outdated classification
- It could be confused with or synonymous with another Koeleria species
- Documentation may be limited to specific geographic regions
Geographic Distribution and Native Status
The native range and distribution of Somerset hair grass remain unclear from available sources. Without concrete information about where this grass naturally occurs, it’s difficult to recommend it for specific regions or confirm its native status in various areas.
Should You Plant Somerset Hair Grass?
Given the limited information available about Koeleria vallesiana, approaching this plant requires caution and realistic expectations. Here’s what to consider:
The uncertainty factor: Without clear growing requirements, native range information, or availability through reputable nurseries, Somerset hair grass isn’t the best choice for most gardeners, especially beginners.
Alternative options: If you’re drawn to fine-textured native grasses, consider these well-documented alternatives:
- Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
- Buffalo grass (Poaceae dactyloides) for western regions
- June grass (Koeleria macrantha) where native
- Prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis)
If You Encounter Somerset Hair Grass
Should you come across what appears to be Koeleria vallesiana in the wild or through a specialized native plant source, proceed thoughtfully:
- Verify identification with local botanists or extension services
- Ensure any plant material is ethically and legally sourced
- Document your findings, as you may be contributing valuable information about this species
- Start with a small trial planting to observe its behavior in your garden
The Broader Koeleria Family
While Somerset hair grass remains mysterious, the Koeleria genus includes several valuable native grasses. These plants typically prefer well-drained soils and full sun, offering fine texture and subtle beauty to native gardens. They often provide seeds for birds and habitat for small wildlife, making them ecologically valuable when appropriate for your region.
The Bottom Line
Somerset hair grass represents an interesting gap in our readily available botanical knowledge. While this might frustrate gardeners seeking specific growing information, it also highlights the importance of local botanical knowledge and the ongoing work of plant researchers and native plant enthusiasts.
For most gardeners, choosing well-documented native grasses will provide better results and clearer guidance. However, if you’re an experienced native plant gardener with connections to botanical experts, investigating Somerset hair grass could contribute to our understanding of this elusive species.
Sometimes the most intriguing plants are the ones that keep a few secrets, reminding us that there’s still much to discover in the plant world, even in our own backyards.
