SafePlants

Corynephorus canescens: Grey Hair-Grass and Gray Clubawn Grass

Corynephorus canescens, commonly known as grey hair-grass or gray clubawn grass, is a species belonging to the grass family (Poaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a grass.
• It forms small, dense tussocks.
• The leaves are finely divided.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Corynephorus canescens (L.) P. Beauv.
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
• Synonyms:
  • Agrostis canescens (L.) Salisb.
  • Aira canescens L.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Europe and the Middle East.
• Introduced in North America.
• Often found in open sand grasslands with acidic soil.
• Also found in Wangford Warren- Suffolk.
• Locations such as Gelderland, Netherlands, are known habitats.
• Can be found in British Columbia, Canada.

Morphological Characteristics

• Grows in small, dense tussocks.
• Forms small dense tussocks and easily resembles a head of grass.
• Forms tufts of blue-gray grass.
• Low-growing ornamental grass with a vertical, tufted habit.
• Finely divided, upright, grey-green leaves.
• Evergreen in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
• Assumes a greenwhite coloring.
• Adult specimens are medium in size.

Ecological Role

• May be cultivated as a small, clumping ornamental grass.
• Can indicate acidic soil conditions.

Varieties

• 'Spiky Blue' is a known variety with attractive tufts of blue-gray grass.

Common Names

• English: Grey Hair-grass, Gray Clubawn Grass, Gray Hairgrass.
• Italian: Panico bianco
• German: Silbergras

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
• Go Botany: New England Wild Flower Society.
• Discover Life: Information on natural history, ecology, identification and distribution.
• Getty Images: Source for premium, high-resolution photos.
• Garden Guides: Plant information, identification information on uses and more.
• Fotolia: Stock photos available for download.