A clumping evergreen grass forming a low mound of fine foliage from which tall airy stems carry shimmering golden oat-like flower heads. A see-through feature that catches the light in borders.
At a glance
- Plant type: Ornamental grass
- Mature size: 2 m H × 1 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Giant Feather Grass
Botanically, Stipa gigantea is an moderate-growing ornamental grass in the Poaceae family. It reaches around 2 m tall and 1 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Yellow flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Giant Feather Grass
Giant 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. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Giant 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
Giant 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 Giant Feather Grass after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Giant Feather Grass in the garden
Giant Feather Grass earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and cut flowers for the vase.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Giant 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.
Buying Giant Feather Grass
Plant Sale lists Giant 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.