Horsetail Feather Grass. A tufted deciduous perennial grass with bright green foliage and upright stems topped with loose tufts of cream to silver, silky flower spikelets in summer. Height 70cm. Spread 50cm. Prefers Full sun, well-drained soil. Hardy.
Stipa tirsa, also known as Horsetail Feather Grass, is a graceful ornamental grass admired for its fine green foliage and silky, cream-silver flower tufts that shimmer in the breeze. This hardy, low-maintenance perennial adds elegance and texture to any garden, whether planted in borders, gravel gardens, or containers. Follow this complete planting and care guide to ensure your Stipa tirsa thrives beautifully.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The best time to plant Stipa tirsa is in spring when the soil starts to warm. This allows the roots to establish before the growing season, ensuring healthy development.
Autumn: You can also plant Stipa tirsa in early autumn, giving it time to settle before its dormant period. This encourages stronger root growth for the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Stipa tirsa flourishes in full sun. Choose an open position that receives plenty of light throughout the day to promote dense, upright growth and rich foliage colour.
Soil: Stipa tirsa prefers well-drained soil. It performs best in moderately fertile, sandy, or loamy soils and dislikes waterlogged ground. For heavy soils, mix in grit or coarse sand to improve drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball to allow the roots of Stipa tirsa to spread easily.
Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with organic compost or well-rotted manure if needed to improve structure and drainage.
Planting: Place Stipa tirsa in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding ground. Backfill with soil, firming gently to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle and encourage root establishment. Avoid waterlogging, as Stipa tirsa dislikes soggy conditions.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Stipa tirsa is drought-tolerant. Water only during prolonged dry spells, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Dormant Season: During winter, reduce watering significantly. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry, as the plant requires minimal moisture when dormant.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to give Stipa tirsa a boost for the growing season.
Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer will help maintain healthy foliage and prolong the plant’s ornamental display. Avoid excessive feeding, which can lead to floppy growth.
Pruning
Early Spring Pruning: In late winter or early spring, before new growth begins, cut back the previous year’s dead foliage to just above the ground. This refreshes Stipa tirsa and promotes lush new shoots.
Tidying: Remove any dead or damaged leaves throughout the year to keep the plant looking neat and airy.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a thin layer of organic mulch, such as compost or bark, around the base of Stipa tirsa in spring. This helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots.
Winter: Avoid heavy mulching directly over the crown, as this can trap moisture and lead to rot.
Supporting the Plant
Stipa tirsa has a naturally upright, tufted habit and generally does not require staking. However, in particularly exposed areas, consider planting it alongside other perennials or ornamental grasses for natural support and protection from strong winds.
Final Tips
Stipa tirsa is an easy-care ornamental grass that brings soft movement and subtle beauty to any garden. By planting it in full sun and well-drained soil, and by following a simple care routine, your Stipa tirsa will reward you with shimmering flower plumes from summer into autumn. Perfect for naturalistic planting schemes, borders, and containers, this elegant grass adds texture and year-round interest to your outdoor space.
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