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 a 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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Mexican Feather Grass handles dry conditions well once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Mexican Feather Grass after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Mexican Feather Grass in the garden
Mexican Feather Grass earns its place for a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Mexican Feather Grass with species that also favour very drought tolerant and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
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. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
