Stipa is found in temperate and warm-temperate areas across the globe. There are around 300 known species, spotted mainly in open woodlands and stony slopes.
For such a dainty, delicate looking grass, this is a tough customer. Its weeping vase form with wispy hair thin grass is impressive when touched by the wind. The effect is truly mesmerizing when planted in large groups as the wind ripples through this grass like waves in the open ocean. Mexican Feather Grass works great as a specimen plant as well and is effective in containers and drought tolerant gardens. A medium sized grass that tops out at 2' high won't overwhelm, unless it is so happy that it starts to naturalize itself. This invasive tendency can happen easy in zones 8 through 10, but is not necessarily a bad thing!
| Plant Types: | Grass, Perennial |
| Light: | Partial Shade to Full Sun |
| Height: | 1 foot to 2 feet |
| Width: | 1 foot 10 inches to 2 feet |
| Zones: | 7 to 11 |
| Bloom Color: | Brown |
| Bloom Seasons: | Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer |
| Leaf Color: | Bronze or Brown, Green |
| Special Features: | Attractive foliage, Naturalizing |
| Shape: | Vase, Weeping |
| Fertilizer: | Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food |
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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.
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.
Produces flattened spikelets with feathery awns between early summer and fall.
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.
Deciduous species should be cut back in early winter. Dead leaves of evergreens should be clipped off in early spring.
Stipa is prone to brown stripe, eye spot, smut, brown patch, rust, and damping off.