Burgundy Fescue (Festuca burgundiana Auquier)

Burgundy Fescue

Festuca burgundiana Auquier

Its deep burgundy foliage adds rich, low-growing texture to rock gardens. Evergreen ornamental grass; common name: Burgundy Fescue.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; foliage color intensifies in full sun, with partial shade tolerated in hot climates
💧
Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established, avoid overwatering
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to -15°C; tolerates moderate summer heat, avoid prolonged extreme temperatures above 32°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, fine-textured blades with deep burgundy to purple-red foliage, forming dense, low clumps
  • Flower: Slender upright stems bearing small, pale green to tan spikelets
  • Habit: Non-invasive clumping growth with no spreading rhizomes
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during establishment; reduce watering once roots are established

Fertilization

Light, balanced feed once in early spring. Use diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive foliage growth that fades color

Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around clumps in early spring; avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent burning
Pruning
  • Trim back old, faded foliage in early spring to encourage new growth
  • Remove spent flower stems to maintain a tidy appearance
  • Divide overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to promote vigor
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; no risk of poisoning from ingestion or contact

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover, rock garden accent, border edging, container filler