Nassella tenuissima
 |
syn. Stipa tenuissima
MEXICAN FEATHER GRASS
Family: Poaceae
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Texas, New Mexico, Mexico, Argentina.
Plant Group:
Grasses.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 2b - 24.
USDA zones: 7-11.
Heat zones: 12-7.
Mature size:
Height: 30 inches (76 cm).
Width: 12 inches (30 cm).
Flowering period:
Summer.
Flowering attributes:
Flowers are feathery,starting out green, then turning a buff tan color.
Leaf attributes:
Narrow, tightly rolled, green leaves.
Growth habit:
Deciduous, clump forming.
Light:
Full sun.
Soil:
Light, well-drained, fertile soil.
Propagation Methods:
Sow seed in spring. | Divide late spring to early summer.
Rainy Side Notes
Nassella tenuissima is still sold under the name Stipa tenuissima. This grass moves at the slightest breath of wind and looks choice in combination with Aster frikartii and Sedum 'Autumn Joy'. Mexican feather grass is an exceptional pick for erosion control on sunny slopes. It politely reseeds itself and is not a pest. To prevent any offspring, cut back seed heads before they ripen.
Run a rake through it in late winter to early spring to take out dead grass.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
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