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Seeds - Rocky Mountain Fescue

Festuca saximontana

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Regular price $5.40
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Format

Harvest year: 2025

Origin: Canada

Categories: Grass, Native, New release, Deer resistant, Perennial

Native range: BC, AB, SK, MB, ON, QC, NL, YT, NT, NU

For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!

Rocky Mountain fescue (Festuca saximontana) is a perennial grass in the Poaceae family. It forms dense tufts of fine, bluish to greyish green leaves, generally reaching about 15 cm in height. The leaves have a rough texture on the upper surface and a smooth underside.

This species is widespread in North America, particularly in dry or mesic prairies, open forests, sandy dunes, rocky outcrops, and subalpine habitats up to 3600 metres in elevation. It is well adapted to harsh climates and poor soils.

Sociability index: 2 to 3 → Indicates the plant’s behaviour in space and its interactions with other plants.

Ecological roles
Rocky Mountain fescue plays an important role in soil stabilization thanks to its dense root system, particularly on slopes and sandy soils. It provides shelter for small animals and contributes to plant diversity in dry and subalpine habitats.

 

Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.

Growing Notes | Seeds - Rocky Mountain Fescue

Rocky Mountain fescue prefers well-drained, poor soils, tolerates drought, and grows in full sun.

Rocky Mountain fescue seeds do not require stratification to germinate. They should be sown on the surface of the substrate, without covering, as exposure to light promotes optimal germination.

Seeds per packet:

Family: Poaceae

Scientific name: Festuca saximontana

Life cycle: Perennial

Hardiness zone: 0

Soil type:
Rocky to sandy

Soil moisture level: Dry

Soil - additional attributes: Well-drained.

Light: Sun

Blooming: June to July

Spacing: 10 cm

Height: 15 cm

Deer resistance: High

Stratification: No

Scarification: No

Germination time: 11 days

Sowing depth: 6 mm