Kentucky Blue Grass, Spreading bluegrass

Poa pratensis

Physical Characteristics

Poa pratensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Most of Europe, including Britain, to N. Africa, temperate Asia and N. America.

Habitats

Lawn; Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: One report suggests that it might be edible but gives no details[177]. It is quite probably referring to the seed (which is small and very fiddly too utilize) but might be referring to the base of the leaf stems, which is eaten in one other member of this genus.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known