Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Melica uniflora f. albida
Wood Melick

- Family
- Poaceae
- Height
- 8–20 inches
- Width
- 12–24 inches
- Flower color
- White, delicate, and airy, with long, slender spikelets that give a graceful appearance
- Foliage color
- Bright green, with fine-textured, arching leaves
- Bloom time
- May to June
- Light
- Full shade to partial shade
- Water
- Moist but well-drained soil
- Maintenance
- Cut back in early spring for a fresh start; may self-seed prolifically
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6–8
- Wildlife
- Not specified
About this plant
Melica uniflora f. albida is a graceful perennial grass known for its slender, flat green leaves that form dense, arching clumps. The plant's delicate white, seed-like flowers appear in late spring to early summer, arranged in loose, nodding panicles atop slender stems. These airy flower clusters lend the plant an ethereal, wispy appearance that adds movement and texture to shaded or woodland gardens.
This variety thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers partial to full shade, making it perfect for areas with limited sunlight. Once established, it is relatively low-maintenance, adapting well to various soil types. Though it may spread through rhizomatous growth and self-seeding, its soft, flowing appearance makes it a valuable addition to garden spaces, providing a beautiful contrast to bolder plants.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Rain Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Astilbes · Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums
Design tip
Foliage and form do most of the work here, so lean on texture and repetition rather than one flowering moment. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Center for Urban Horticulture.
