Bouteloua 'Blond ambition'
Common Name(s):
Blue grama
Mosquito grass
Synonym:
Bouteloua gracilis 'Blonde Ambition'
Blond Ambition grama
Flower:
Chartreuse
Blooms :
Jun
to:
Aug
Golden blonde flag-like flowers
Botanical Description
Fragrant?
NO
Family:
Poaceae
Grass
Foliage:
Bluish-green
Leaves linear about 1/4th inch wide
Fall Color?
YES
Leaves turn golden brown, inflorescences turn golde as well
Semi-Evergreen
Photo by:
Heading 6
Attractive inforescences remain on plant
Oregon Native?
YES
West State Native?
YES
Origins:
North America, Mississippi River westward
Site Selection
Minimum USDA Hardiness Zone:
3
Water Needs:
M
Sun Needs:
Full Sun
Deer Resistant?
YES
Firewise?
YES
Height:
.75-2.5'
Spread:
.75-1.5'
Growth Rate:
Medium
Native Habitat:
Prairie, plains
Soil:
Sandy, loamy, clay, rocky well-drained
Care Recommendations
Maintenance Level:
Low
Fertilizer:
None required or if desired a well balanced slow-release ferilizer or compost in spring
Mulch:
None
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, annual hard cut back to 2-3"in spring, divide every few years
Long Term:
Winter:
Don't cut back, don't water
Spring:
Cut back old stems to 3-4" to promote new growth
Summer:
Provide minimal water as it thrives in dry conditions
Fall:
Leave seed heads for fall and winter interest
General Care Comments:
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, water only to establish, cut back early spring/late winter to 3-4" to promote new growth
Common Problems
Lack of sun causes drooping, poor growth, too much water promotes root rots and some other diseases
Diseases:
Root rot from too much water, rust, leaf spot
Insects:
Fungus gnats, mealybugs, aphids
Environmental Problems:
Does poorly in compacted soil, areas with high humidity and righ ainfall
Pests:
I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.