Tufted Hair Grass. A compact, clump-forming grass with fine green leaves. Panicles of yellow to silvery-white flower spikes from July to September. Height and Spread 60cm. Full sun/partial shade. Hardy.
Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Palava’ is a compact, clump-forming ornamental grass admired for its fine green foliage and elegant panicles of yellow to silvery-white flower spikes from midsummer into early autumn. Growing up to 60cm in height and spread, this hardy perennial is perfect for borders, wildlife-friendly gardens, or adding texture and movement to mixed planting schemes. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Palava’ thrives year after year.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Palava’ is in spring. This allows the roots to establish before the main growing and flowering season.
Autumn: Planting in early autumn is also suitable, giving the plant time to settle before entering dormancy and ensuring vigorous growth the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Palava’ flourishes in full sun to partial shade. For the best display of its airy flower panicles, choose a spot that receives good light throughout the day.
Soil: This grass prefers moist but well-drained soil. Incorporating organic matter such as compost will help improve both fertility and drainage. Avoid planting in ground that remains waterlogged.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball of your Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Palava’.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to encourage healthy root growth.
Planting: Position the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill carefully and firm gently to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help settle the soil and establish the roots. Ensure the area drains well.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Water Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Palava’ during prolonged dry periods, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Dormant Season: Once the plant is dormant, reduce watering significantly, only providing moisture if the soil becomes very dry.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring to support fresh growth.
Summer: A light feeding during midsummer can help sustain healthy foliage and prolong the display of flower panicles.
Pruning and Maintenance
Deadheading: Remove spent flower stems to maintain a neat appearance, or leave them standing through winter for ornamental interest and to provide habitat for wildlife.
Cutting Back: In late winter or very early spring, cut Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Palava’ back to just above ground level to encourage vigorous new growth.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture, enrich the soil, and suppress weeds.
Winter: A protective mulch will help shield the roots during colder months and stabilise soil temperature.
Supporting the Plant
Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Palava’ forms tidy clumps and rarely requires staking. Its compact growth habit makes it naturally stable even in exposed locations.
Final Tips
Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Palava’ is a hardy, low-maintenance grass that adds graceful movement and texture to any planting scheme. Whether used in borders, meadow-style plantings, or as a soft backdrop for perennials, it delivers long-lasting structure and seasonal interest. By planting it in fertile, well-drained soil, providing occasional feeding, and cutting back in early spring, you’ll enjoy this elegant ornamental grass year after year.
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Christine B. (verified owner) –
Nice healthy plant, good size and price. Has a few seed heads on it, which are quite pretty. Looking forward to seeing it bloom next year!