Coleanthus subtilis — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Coleanthus subtilis

Coleanthus Subtilis

Updated · 13 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Coleanthus is a genus of Eurasian and North American plants in the grass family. The only known species is Coleanthus subtilis. It has a scattered distribution, found on lakeshores, streambanks, and other wet places in central Europe (France, Germany, Czech Rep; extinct in Norway + Italy), Asia (Western Siberia, Khabarovsk, eastern China), and northwestern North America (Oregon, Washington, British Columbia).

A note from PlantMom

Moss grass has strong resistance to disease and is usually not susceptible to illnesses. In terms of care, the plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Moss grass is appropriate for anyone who has an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not demand much prior care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Coleanthus Subtilis.

Light

Moss grass is native to areas with dappled sunlight, like forest understories or rocky sites that offer natural shade. It grows best in partial sun but can also tolerate full sun conditions.

Temperature

Moss grass can adapt to a broad range of temperatures, but its range may still be restricted by different combinations of moisture and heat. It performs best in warm summer conditions with sufficient rainfall or irrigation. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high temperatures increase the chance of Moss grass dying. In winter, protecting it from cold can raise its survival rate.

Pruning

Moss grass forms small, dense mats that benefit from being pruned between early and late spring. To encourage healthy growth and improve airflow, use sharp, sterilized tools to trim away dead stems. Regular maintenance enhances its ornamental appeal, making moss grass an attractive choice for gardens.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Grass
Life Cycle
Annual
Genus
Coleanthus
Family
Poaceae
Hardiness Zone
6-9
Mature Height
2 cm to 5 cm
Mature Spread
1 cm to 3 cm
Leaf Color
Light Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Size
0.10 cm to 0.20 cm
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer, Late summer
Native Area
Russia, Norway, Germany, Austria, Italy, Czech Republic, Slovakia, France, China
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Moss Grass en Mudgrass en Sheath grass