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Giant feather grass

Stipa gigantea

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This semi-evergreen species makes a stately, stand-alone specimen with narrow, arching foliage and shimmering gold panicles that reach 8 feet tall. The flowers open in June as silvery-purple and mature to shades of wheat.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsStipa are tufted, clump-forming species are native to temperate and warm temperate regions of the world. They are suitable as accents or specimens in grass or rock gardens, and for naturalizing, wild gardens, and erosion control. Their inflorescences may be used for dried flower arrangements. 

CareGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Remove the old foliage in early spring.

PropagationSow seed in a cold frame in spring; divide from mid-spring to early summer.

ProblemsDamping off, rust, smut, brown patch, brown stripe, eye spot.

  • Genus : Stipa
  • Plant Width : 3 to 6 feet
  • Plant Height : 6 to 10 feet
  • Moisture : Adaptable
  • Tolerance : Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant, Frost Tolerant
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Plant Type : Grasses
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Characteristics : Self Seeds, Showy Foliage, Showy Seed Heads
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
  • Bloom Time : Summer

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