Festuca Glauca - Elijah Blue

Festuca Glauca is commonly known as Elijah Blue Grass or Blue Fescue.
Densely tufted, Festuca glauca is an evergreen grass that features eye-catching narrow silvery leaves. One of the most colourful of all clumping grasses, the diminutive plant has steely blue leaf blades that make the grass stand out in stark contrast when planted against a backdrop of green. During the summer months, tall silvery blue flowers tower above the clump. The flowers quickly fade to light brownish hue as they develop seeds. Many gardeners opt to sheer off the flower spikes because they feel that they detract from the overall clumping beauty of the Elijah Blue Grass. 

Elijah Blue Grass develops optimum colour when grown in full sun. It loves full sun and that will ensure the fabulous colour is at it's best although will tolerate partial shade. In areas with overly hot summers, the clumping grass grows best when planted in a site that provides afternoon shading from the sun’s intensity.

The hardy little clumping grass is native to southern France and has become a popular landscape choice around the world. It grows in a small clumping habit. Unlike other turf forming grasses, it does not spread via runners so is an ideal option to plant in any flower bed or border. Festuca glauca is exceptionally drought tolerant and can thrive on very little water. It will also withstand nutrient poor, sandy soil conditions. For best growth results plant in an area with well-draining soil because it does not like overly wet roots. Festuca glauca grows to a max height 30cm and a spread of 45cm. Once established, the hardy clumping grass requires virtually no care to thrive.

Elijah Blue Grass looks wonderful when teamed up with contrasting plants either in colour or shape - we love to plant the hardy clumping grass around the base of topiary lollipops because it showcases their unique sculptural qualities. Festuca glauca is also an ideal choice to line walkways or flower borders. Deer resistant, Festuca glauca flourishes in woodland or cottage gardens. It can also be utilized in formal landscape designs or rock gardens. The diminutive size of the grass makes it a wonderful container plant choice. It creates a unique colour accent to any garden or landscape.

Check out our full range of ornamental grasses in our dedicated Grasses section. Paramount Garden Centre in Enfield has a large selection of evergreen bamboo grasses which are also available to buy online.