A fine-textured grass forming flowing tufts of needle-thin green foliage that turn blonde, with airy seed heads that ripple in the breeze. Now a declared weed in parts of Australia and prohibited in some states.
At a glance
- Plant type: Ornamental grass
- Mature size: 60 cm H × 50 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Mexican Feather Grass
Botanically, Nassella tenuissima is an fast-growing ornamental grass in the Poaceae family. It reaches around 60 cm tall and 50 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Cream green flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Mexican Feather Grass
Mexican Feather Grass suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Mexican Feather Grass does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Mexican Feather Grass is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Mexican Feather Grass after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Mexican Feather Grass in the garden
Mexican Feather Grass earns its place for a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Mexican Feather Grass with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Mexican Feather Grass
Plant Sale lists Mexican Feather Grass as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.