New Zealand Wind Grass (Stipa arundinacea) Perennial, Zones 7 – 10
Pheasant Tail Grass, Also Known As ; New Zealand Wind Grass – fast growing –
An impressive ornamental grass that grows extremely fast in its comfort zone (Zones 8-10). Nice and tight shape that ends up being around 3′ x 3′. By mid summer develops some of the most delicate flowing seed heads that you will see on an ornamental grass. These will turn a nice rusty orange above the bright green foliage in late summer and into the fall. An evergreen that can handle a cut back about every couple of years or so to refresh its look. A favorite for landscape designers and gardeners in general.
Plant Care
Planting:
Sow seeds in spring, in containers in a cold frame (for protection and to ensure hardiness). Can also propagate by division in mid-spring to early summer.
Plant Growth:
Evergreen or deciduous, perennial grasses that are tufted and bristly. Stipas do well in the sun and plant height varies depending on species. One species of Stipa will grow to 3 ft. tall. S. arundinacea tolerates partial shade. Stipa works well in a mixed or shrub border. The inflorescences are suitable for cutting, and are often dyed to use as part of a flower ensemble.
Blooming:
Produces flattened spikelets with feathery awns between early summer and fall.
Soil and Irrigation:
Irrigation needs vary depending on species. S. gigantea requires ample water until it is established. S. tenuissimus requires regular waterings. Does best in moderately fertile, medium-light soil with good drainage. S. arudinacea withstands heavy soils.
Pruning:
Deciduous species should be cut back in early winter. Dead leaves of evergreens should be clipped off in early spring.
Grass Specifications
Season: Perennial
USDA Zones: 8 – 10
Height: 30 inches
Width: 36 inches
Foliage Color: Green, bronze and golden
Flower Color: Green, bronze and golden
Growth Rate: Fast
Fall Color: Orange-brown
Soil Requirement: Moderate fertility
Environment: Full sun
Moisture Requirements: Dry
Planting Directions
Temperature: 64 – 75F
Average Germ Time: 1 – 2 weeks
Light Required: Yes
Depth: Do not cover
Sowing Rate: 2 – 3 seeds per plant
Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
Plant Spacing: 24 inches
Materials: Ornamental Grass,grass seeds,Showy Flowers,Showy Foliage,Showy Seed Heads,Pheasant Tail Grass,Seed,Stipa arundinacea,New Zealand Wind Grass