Golden Feather Grass. A showy, graceful perennial grass producing arching clumps of narrow foliage then long silver feathery flower spikes in summer and autumn. Height with flowers 1m. Spread 50cm. Full sun, well-drained soil. Hardy.
Stipa pulcherrima—also known as Golden Feather Grass—is a hardy, ornamental perennial grass that forms graceful clumps of narrow foliage and produces shimmering silver feather-like plumes from summer into autumn. Reaching up to 1 metre in height, it adds texture, movement, and a light, airy feel to garden borders, gravel gardens, and naturalistic planting schemes.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Plant Stipa pulcherrima in spring to allow roots to establish ahead of the growing season. This encourages fuller clumps and taller flowering spikes.
Autumn: You can also plant in early autumn, giving the grass time to settle before dormancy and setting the stage for healthy growth in the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Stipa pulcherrima thrives in full sun. Choose a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best results.
Soil: Plant in well-drained soil. Stipa pulcherrima dislikes soggy ground, so incorporate grit or sand if needed to improve drainage. Poor to moderately fertile soils are ideal.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Area: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. Loosen surrounding soil to assist root development.
Soil Enrichment: Mix in compost or organic matter to improve drainage and soil health.
Positioning: Set the plant so that the crown is level with the surface of the soil. Backfill, firm the soil gently, and water thoroughly.
Spacing: Allow up to 50 cm between plants to accommodate mature growth and maintain airflow.
Watering Requirements
Initial Phase: Water well after planting and during dry spells for the first few weeks.
Established Plants: Stipa pulcherrima is drought-tolerant once established. Water occasionally during prolonged dry periods but let the soil dry out between sessions to avoid root rot.
Feeding
Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring. Overfeeding can cause excessive leafy growth, so use fertiliser sparingly with Stipa pulcherrima.
Pruning and Maintenance
Seasonal Tidy-Up: In late winter or early spring, cut back any dead foliage and flower stems to the base to encourage fresh growth.
Rejuvenation: Every few years, divide the clumps of Stipa pulcherrima to reinvigorate growth and maintain a tidy form.
Mulching
Mulch lightly in spring with compost or well-rotted leaf mould to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid mulching directly over the crown.
In cooler months, mulching also protects the root zone against temperature fluctuations.
Supporting the Plant
Stipa pulcherrima generally maintains a strong, upright form and does not need staking. In exposed or windy spots, a discreet support ring may help keep it neat.
Final Tips
Stipa pulcherrima is a low-maintenance, visually striking ornamental grass ideal for sunny, free-draining locations. Whether used in formal borders, prairie-style gardens, or minimalist landscapes, this grass adds year-round interest and stunning silvery movement in summer and autumn. By following this care guide, you’ll enjoy the full impact of Stipa pulcherrima’s elegant plumes and refined texture season after season.
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