Anemanthele lessoniana
pheasant's tail grass ( syn. Stipa arundinacea )
Anemanthele lessoniana is a striking, ornamental grass that provides year-round colour, movement and structure in borders or pots. Forming a...
Plant description
Forming a fountain-like clump of slender, semi-evergreen foliage, with sprays of airy flowerheads, which appear in late summer, this elegant ornamental lends itself well to a wide range of planting schemes.
Often referred to as Stipa arundinacea (or more commonly pheasant's tail grass), the foliage of this adaptable and relatively drought-tolerant grass emerges green, but soon develops irregular yellow, orange and red spotting and streaking, which becomes even more intense during the colder months of the year.
This reliable, decorative and adaptable grass comes highly recommended.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth
Slow growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
How to care for Anemanthele lessoniana:
To keep Anemanthele looking its best, gently tease out dead foliage in spring by running your fingers through it as if combing hair.
This grass may self-seed, so remove any unwanted seedlings as they appear to maintain control.
Finally, consider providing some protection in exposed or colder regions of the UK by covering them with a double layer of horticultural fleece or dry mulch (bark chippings/ composted pine needles) to insulate the roots.
Please note:
GOES WELL WITH
Euphorbias
Hardy euphorbias, commonly known as spurges, make ideal plants for any gardener who rates themself as ‘keen but clueless’, yet a little bit adventurous. First and foremost they are excellent garden plants that can be used in the border and in containers,
Read full articleDecorative seed heads for the autumn garden
As the days shorten, the autumn sun sinks a little lower every day and begins to backlight the borders, picking up detail and silhouette. There’s plenty to enjoy,- seed heads, in autumnal shades of brown and silver take centre stage, often lasting until m
Read full articleShimmering late-season grasses
With the garden devoid of summer froth and carpeted in autumn leaves, certain plants shine at this time of year, a well-placed grass shimmering against a winter sunset, or the reddish brown, silky feathers shimmering in low sunlight are winter treats.
Read full article