Deschampsia cespitosa (Tufted Hair Grass)

One of the few ornamental grasses that grow well in moderately shady locations, Deschampsia cespitosa (Tufted Hair Grass) is a clump-forming, cool season, semi-evergreen grass forming a low and dense tussock of narrow, dark green leaves, up to 18 in. tall (45 cm). In early summer, elegant clouds of delicate feathery panicles of purplish-green to tawny flowers emerge on arching stems rising 3 ft. (90 cm) above the foliage. They sway gracefully in the slightest breeze and persist well into winter. Spectacular when backlit by the rising or setting sun!

• Excellent choice for adding height and structure to the garden, this architectural grass is perfect for beds and borders where it will easily combine with other plants, city gardens, cottage gardens, prairie plantings, or containers.
• Growing easily in a dense clump about 2-3 ft. tall (60-90 cm) and 1-2 ft. across (30-60 cm), it enjoys full sun to part shade in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Moist and organically rich soils are preferred. Some cultivars are drought-tolerant once established.
• Virtually pest and disease free, it requires very little care and provides weeks of interest from summer to frost. Deer and rabbit resistant!
• Cut back old stems to the ground in early spring before growth resumes. Self-seeds in ideal growing conditions. Propagate by seed sown in situ in spring or fall or by division in early summer.
• Native to North America.