Grass - Festuca glauca Beyond Blue™ ('Casca11')

Beyond Blue™ is not known for attracting a specific type of wildlife, but it can provide cover and shelter for small insects and ground-dwelling creatures. The seeds from the flower spikes may also attract birds if left to mature, but the plant's primary appeal is its ornamental value.

Beyond Blue™ is an evergreen perennial that retains its striking blue color throughout the year, providing interest even in the winter months. In colder climates, it may die back but returns each spring.

Accent in modern or xeriscape gardens

Mass planting for texture and contrast

Border edging or pathways

Containers and rooftop gardens

Rock gardens or sunny slopes

The leaves of Beyond Blue™ Blue Fescue are narrow, spiky, and powdery blue in color. The foliage forms a dense, compact mound that retains its intense blue hue throughout the year, unlike other varieties that may fade in the summer. The fine-textured leaves create a bold, architectural statement in any garden setting.

• Flowering Season: Beyond Blue™ produces inconspicuous flower spikes in late spring to early summer, typically from May to June. The flowers are soft, tan-colored panicles that rise above the foliage, adding a delicate, airy element to the plant's spiky mound.

• Flower Description: The flowers of Festuca glauca Beyond Blue™ are small, light brown to tan panicles that bloom atop slender stems. Though the flowers are not the primary attraction, they add subtle texture and contrast to the dense blue foliage. Once they fade, the seed heads can remain for added visual interest or be trimmed for a tidier appearance.

• When to Plant: Plant in early spring or fall to give the grass time to establish its roots before the heat of summer or the cold of winter.

• How to Plant: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and plant at the same depth as it was in the container. Space plants 12-18 inches apart for mass plantings or closer for borders.

Pruning is minimal for Beyond Blue™. In early spring, before new growth begins, trim back any dead or damaged foliage to maintain its tidy, compact shape. If desired, the flower spikes can be removed after they fade, but many gardeners leave them for winter interest.

Beyond Blue™ is drought-tolerant once established, making it a low-maintenance option for dry areas. Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system. After that, water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It prefers well-drained soils and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.

This ornamental grass thrives in full sun. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain its vibrant blue color. In partial shade, the color may fade, and the plant may not grow as vigorously.

Beyond Blue™ is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage, but the flower spikes can be harvested for use in dried floral arrangements. Cut the spikes when they are fully open and let them dry naturally for use in crafts or indoor decor.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a light top-dressing of compost. This grass thrives in poorer soils and does not require heavy feeding. Too much fertilizer may lead to leggy growth and reduced foliage color.

• Mulching: Apply a 1-2 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

• Soil: Beyond Blue™ prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH levels but can adapt to poor soil conditions.

• Disease Resistance: This grass is highly resistant to pests and diseases. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot, especially in wetter climates.

Beyond Blue™ is wind-pollinated, though its flowers are not particularly showy. It spreads by clumping rather than reseeding, so pollination is not a key factor for this plant's growth.

Festuca glauca 'Beyond Blue' pairs beautifully with plants that enhance its bold blue foliage and thrive in similar sun and soil conditions:

Perennials:

• Coreopsis verticillata (e.g., ‘Zagreb’, ‘Moonbeam’) – bright yellow contrast
  
• Echinacea purpurea – upright, daisy-like flowers in summer
  
• Salvia nemorosa – spiky purple-blue blooms
  
• Nepeta faassenii (Catmint) – soft lavender-blue flowers and silvery foliage
  
• Sedum 'Autumn Joy' – succulent-like texture, fall interest
  

Ornamental Grasses:

• Pennisetum alopecuroides (Fountain Grass) – soft plumes for textural contrast
  
• Carex testacea – bronze tones enhance blue foliage
  

Low Shrubs:

Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender) – matching drought tolerance and aroma

Santolina chamaecyparissus (Lavender cotton) – silver-grey tones and texture

• Ground Covers:
  
• Thymus serpyllum (Creeping Thyme)
  
• Sedum spurium (Stonecrop)
  

These companions enhance design contrast and thrive in the same full sun, low-water, well-drained settings.