Genus Deschampsia (Hair grass)

Deschampsia cespitosa 'Northern Lights' Photo/Illustration: Colleen Fitzpatrick

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Common Name: Hair grass

The genus produces compact tussocks of elegant, fine leaves. The flowers are airy panicles that rise above the foliage in silvery shades of bronze, purple, and brown, and then fade to golden hues. They are particularly stunning when backlit, and the texture makes them perfect for growing in large sweeps and for naturalizing with bulbs. Some species are native.
Noteworthy characteristics: These adaptable grasses, with their elegant foliage and flowers, provide excellent texture and movement in the landscape.
Care: Tolerant of dry or moist, neutral to acidic soils. Provide part shade to full sun.
Propagation: Sow seed in situ in spring or fall; divide in mid-spring to early summer.
Problems: None known.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Deschampsia

Deschampsia cespitosa 'Northern Lights'
(Tufted hair grass, Tussock grass)

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Hardiness Zones:

A tuft of thin grassy foliage with gray and gold variegation distinguishes this cultivar. Early summer brings 3-foot-tall, airy plumes of tiny flowers that look beautiful when backlit by the sun. As fall approaches, the foliage turns golden with pink-coral tips. This grass even grows well in shadier sites. Plant in a border, woodland garden, or shaded rock garden.