Stipa ichu
ichu feather grass
An RHS award-winning ornamental grass, Stipa ichu is heat-resistant and thrives in hot, dry conditions once established, making it...
9cm pot
£14.99
available to order from summer
3 × 9cm pots
£32.99
£11.00 each
available to order from summer
1
Plant description
An RHS award-winning ornamental grass, Stipa ichu is heat-resistant and thrives in hot, dry conditions once established, making it an excellent choice for Mediterranean or prairie-style plantings.
Its fountain-like clumps of bright green foliage transition to pale buff and gold in autumn, adding warmth to the winter garden. In summer, it is crowned with masses of slender, silvery-white plumes that sway elegantly in the breeze and persist through colder months.
Durable and drought-tolerant at maturity, it looks stunning planted en masse, as an accent, or combined with other sun-loving, low-maintenance plants. Ideal for well-drained soil in full sun, it’s a reliable choice for year-round interest.
Best grown in a sunny spot with good drainage, it can be cut back in spring to stimulate fresh growth.
Its fountain-like clumps of bright green foliage transition to pale buff and gold in autumn, adding warmth to the winter garden. In summer, it is crowned with masses of slender, silvery-white plumes that sway elegantly in the breeze and persist through colder months.
Durable and drought-tolerant at maturity, it looks stunning planted en masse, as an accent, or combined with other sun-loving, low-maintenance plants. Ideal for well-drained soil in full sun, it’s a reliable choice for year-round interest.
Best grown in a sunny spot with good drainage, it can be cut back in spring to stimulate fresh growth.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun
Rate of growth
Average
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Stipa ichu:
Plant in medium to light, well-drained soil in a sunny position, but avoid overly rich soils that may lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers. Water regularly until established, but take care not to overwater, as it tolerates drought better than soggy conditions.
Divide clumps every few years in early spring to maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding. In late winter or early spring, remove any dead or tired foliage by combing or lightly raking the plant, and trim back flower stems if needed to encourage fresh, healthy growth.
Divide clumps every few years in early spring to maintain vigour and prevent overcrowding. In late winter or early spring, remove any dead or tired foliage by combing or lightly raking the plant, and trim back flower stems if needed to encourage fresh, healthy growth.
Please note:
This grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
