Nassella (Stipa) tenuissima

Mexican feather grass
Great in groups that naturally softens a garden. Grows well in pots or even cracks. Can be quite invasive in coastal California.
synonyms Stipa tenuissima
height 6–12
width 12–18ft
tolerates Coast, Cold, Cool Summers, Drought, Fog, Pots, Rooftops, Neglect, Salt, Wind
water
needs		 Lowest
water
info		 Water this plant every couple of weeks through its first dry season. Use drippers, emitters, or a slow stream of water so that it doesn’t run off; allow the water to trickle all the way down through the deepest layers of soil. Going forward it won’t need supplemental irrigation, though it will look more lush if given water every two to four weeks during dry weather once established. In a pot slowly water the entire surface until water comes out of the bottom of your pot.
hardy
to		 0F
exposure Part Shade – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Planting Mix, In Pots: Potting Soil, Tolerates Sandy Soil
fertilizing Low Needs
origin SW USA
california
native		 No

Outdoor Exposure Guide

OUTDOOR EXPOSURE GUIDE

Full Sun
Six or more hours of sun beams directly landing on the plant's leaves.

Part Shade
Three to five hours of sun beams directly landing on the plant's leaves.

Part Sun
One to two hours of sun beams directly landing on the plants leaves.

Full Shade
The plant is never fully lit by sun beams, but is in a bright spot or has dappled sunbeams playing over the leaves throughout the day.

Deep Shade
The plant never has dappled light on the leaves, and is in a place that feels dim, even on a nice sunny day.

Growing Notes

Cutting down the grass during winter will keep it looking fresh, though the older leaves tend to age handsomely and this is generally not necessary.

Special Interest

Very well adapted to fire, and will burn to the ground and then regrow afterward.