June Grass, Prairie Junegrass

Koeleria macrantha

Physical Characteristics

Koeleria macrantha is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Northern temperate zone, including Britain, between latitudes 37° and 60° N.

Habitats

Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked. It is ground into a powder and eaten like porridge or used as a flour for making bread etc[105, 161, 177, 257].

Medicinal Uses

Styptic The plant has been used in the treatment of cuts.

Known Hazards

None known