The commonest types of Melica Plants grown in the garden are Melic grass Onion grass, and Melic.
The genus itself contains many other grasses and they range from 30 to 60 cm (1 to 2 feet) in height.
Melica species usually flower in the summer with silky inflorescences.
Melica stricta by Matt Lavin.
Common Names: Melic, Melic Grass, Oniongrass, Staggers Grass.
Family: Poaceae.
Life Cycle: Hardy perennial.
Height: 4 to 40 inches (10 to 100 cm).
Native: Worldwide temperate regions.
Growing Region: Zones 5 to 10.
It is best to sow Melic grass outdoors. Sow at a spacing of about 25 cm (10 inches) apart at the beginning of spring. Next, lightly cover the seeds.
It will take about three weeks to germinate the pearl grass seeds, once the temperature has reached about 15 to 20 degrees Centigrade (59 to 68°F).
The plant can grow in either sunny or partially shaded parts of the garden. They prefer a moist soil.
Once established cut the Melica plant back in the spring-time. This will encourage vigorous thick growth.
It is important to keep the soil moist, so water regularly. If you require more Melica Plants then the plant can be divided in the spring.
The Melica genus consists around 90 species, often called melic or melic grass.
Yes, Melica grasses can make graceful additions to a garden, especially in naturalistic or prairie-style plantings, and can provide winter interest.
Melica uniflora and Melica ciliata are two species commonly grown in gardens for their attractive, pendulous flowerheads.
Plants in the Melica genus are not typically known for their fragrance.
Melica prefers a sunny to lightly shaded spot, with well-drained soil. They're tolerant of a wide range of conditions, including drought once established.
Currently, Melica is not considered invasive in the USA.
To remove Melica, use a garden fork or spade to dig out the plant, ensuring you remove all the roots to prevent regrowth.
The Melica genus belongs to the grass family, Poaceae. Its members are known as melic grass or onion grass, with delicate, nodding flower heads that add interest to any garden setting.
Plant Melica in a sunny to partially shaded location with well-drained soil, preferably in early spring or fall. These grasses are drought-tolerant and require little maintenance once established, making them an excellent choice for low-maintenance or xeriscape gardens.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Melica plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Arundo donax, Festuca plant, Avena plant, and Briza plants.