Hedgehog Fescue

An exceptionally architectural and tactile grass, the Hedgehog Fescue is a gem for rockeries, troughs or gravel gardens. It forms remarkably dense, stiff, hemispherical mounds of needle-like, blue-grey foliage that is quite prickly to the touch, hence its common name. Unlike many other fescues, it retains its tight, neat shape without becoming sprawling or messy over time. In early summer, it produces short, inconspicuous flower spikes that barely rise above the foliage, ensuring the focus remains on its geometric form. It is native to the mountains of Turkey and is perfectly adapted to exposed, sunny sites with very sharp drainage. In the UK, it is essential to avoid waterlogged winter soil. It is evergreen and provides year-round structure and colour. Its silver-blue tone makes it a perfect partner for purple-flowered alpines or darker gravel mulches. It is very slow-growing and requires virtually no maintenance other than removing occasional dead blades.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained to gravelly soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.