Melica ciliata aka Ciliate Melic
Taxonomy
Melica ciliata, also known as the hairy melic or silky spike melic, is a deciduous, perennial grass native to Europe, north Africa, and temperate Asia. This species has also been introduced to South Australia. It forms a spreading clump of stiff, narrow green or blue-green leaves and produces upright or arching stems in late spring. These stems bear flower spikes up to 15cm long, composed of small, pale cream flowers adorned with silky hairs. M. ciliata is a tufted perennial with elongated rhizomes and erect culms that can reach lengths of 50-100 cm. The leaf sheaths are tubular and closed, and the leaf blades are flat, stiff, and measure 5-15 cm in length by 1-3 mm in width. The surface of the blades is scabrous and glabrous, and the tip is attenuate. The panicle of this grass is contracted, reaching a length of 20 cm, and the spikelets are cuneate with one fertile floret. These florets are supported by pedicels.
Common names
Ciliate Melic, Hairy Melic, Silky Spike MelicHow to care for Ciliate Melic
Difficulty
Ciliate Melic is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Water
Ciliate Melic should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Ciliate Melic loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Ciliate Melic prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
The Ciliate Melic should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
The Ciliate Melic is a clumping species, with new growth arising from the soil surrounding the parent plant.
More info:
Wikipedia
