What hardiness zones is Agrostis capillaris suitable for?

Agrostis capillaris is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b.

What are the sun requirements for Agrostis capillaris?

Agrostis capillaris requires full sun to partial shade.

How much water does Agrostis capillaris need?

Agrostis capillaris has moderate to high water needs.

Wild Grasses

Agrostis capillaris

colonial bentgrass

PoaceaeEurope

At a Glance

TypeGrass

Habitlow-growing, spreading

Foliagedeciduous

Height2-4 inches

Width12-18 inches

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

3a - 7b

Zone 3a

Zone 3b

Zone 4a

Zone 4b

Zone 5a

Zone 5b

Zone 6a

Zone 6b

Zone 7a

Zone 7b

These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.

Frost Tolerancehardy

Overview

Agrostis capillaris is a fine-textured, cool-season perennial grass that forms dense, low-growing turf through both rhizomes and tillers. The narrow leaf blades are typically 2-4 mm wide with a distinctive boat-shaped tip and smooth texture. The plant produces delicate, airy panicles of tiny flowers that emerge on slender stems 8-20 inches tall, creating a misty appearance when in bloom. This species is characterized by its fine, soft foliage that creates a carpet-like appearance when mowed regularly. The stems are smooth and slender, with nodes that may root at ground contact points. Agrostis capillaris can be distinguished from other bentgrasses by its relatively upright growth habit and the presence of both stolons and rhizomes, though the rhizomes are less prominent than in creeping bentgrass.

Native Range

Agrostis capillaris is native to Europe, particularly common throughout the British Isles, Scandinavia, and temperate regions of continental Europe. It naturally occurs in grasslands, meadows, heathlands, and along roadsides in its native range.

Suggested Uses

golf course fairways and tees, fine lawns, overseeding cool-season turf, naturalized meadows, erosion control on slopes

How to Identify

Agrostis capillaris can be identified by its fine, narrow leaves (2-4 mm wide) with distinctive boat-shaped tips and smooth surfaces. Look for the delicate, open panicle flower heads that appear misty or cloud-like when mature. The plant forms dense, low-growing turf with both above-ground stolons and short rhizomes. Unlike creeping bentgrass, colonial bentgrass has a more upright growth habit and less aggressive spreading pattern.

Appearance

Bloom Information

late spring to early summer

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

purplish-green to tan

Foliage Description

medium to dark green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

full sun to partial shade

Soil pH

5.5-7.0

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate to high

Frost Tolerance

hardy

Time to Maturity

1-2 years

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Agrostis capillaris requires consistent moisture and performs best in cool, humid conditions. Water regularly during establishment and dry periods, as this grass is not drought tolerant. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in early fall. The grass benefits from regular overseeding in thin areas and may require renovation every few years in high-traffic situations. Avoid heavy foot traffic during hot weather when the grass is stressed.

Pruning

Agrostis capillaris should be mowed regularly at a height of 0.5-1.5 inches for turf applications. Frequent, light mowing encourages dense growth and prevents seed head formation. For naturalized areas, allow the grass to flower and set seed before cutting back in late summer. Remove thatch buildup annually through light dethatching in spring or fall.

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Agrostis capillaris is non-toxic to humans and pets. This grass is safe for areas where children and animals play, and there are no known harmful compounds in any part of the plant.