Stipa tenuissima
- Delicate and graceful leaves and airy flower heads sway gently with the slightest breeze.
- Its needle-like flexible leaves form dense, bright green clumps.
- Reseeds to naturalize in meadows or on slopes for erosion control, though not a pest.
- Combine with Sedums and Asters or tuck into a rock garden.
Every time the wind blows, the graceful foliage of Mexican feather grass dances in the wind, making it a lovely addition to any landscape or container planting. A North American native, Mexican feather grass has an upright habit with silky looking seed heads appearing in the summer. This sun-loving plant grows 18 to 24 inches tall and, once established, is relatively drought resistant. Mexican feather grass is also a good choice for erosion control on exposed hillsides.
Mexican feather grass grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. This hardy grass likes life on the dry side and will suffer if planted in areas with heavy, wet soil. You can also grow Mexican feather grass in pots and planters. Mexican feather grass will often self sow from seed which is ideal if you are using this plant as a ground cover. Mexican feather grass is relatively deer resistant. Songbirds are also attracted to the plant’s nutritious seeds.
Common Names: Stipa, Hair Grass, or Ponytail Grass.