Stipa ichu (Peruvian Feather Grass)

Slow-growing, Stipa ichu (Peruvian Feather Grass) is a gorgeous and impressive perennial grass forming dense clumps of upright to slightly arching, bright green leaves. They turn into attractive shades of pale buff and gold in the fall and persist for months, adding bristling color to the dull winter landscape. In summer, the foliage is topped with stunning masses of long, slender, silvery-white, feathery plumes that persist through the winter months. A lovely ornamental grass for prairie-style plantings. It goes well with other drought-tolerant Mediterranean plants and looks terrific in masses or as an accent plant.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows easily in a dense fountain-like clump about 2-3 ft. tall and wide (60-90 cm).
• Performs best in full sun or part shade in moderately fertile, medium to light, well-drained soils. Once established this plant is drought tolerant. Quite heat-resistant, it is an extremely durable hot weather plant.
• The beautiful arching lines of Stipa ichu help create magnificent and elegantly mobile combinations in the landscape. Highly versatile, it is perfect for borders where this grass will easily combine with other plants, containers, gravel gardens, city gardens or cottage gardens. Makes a great accent or beautiful backdrop.
• Generally pest and disease free, it requires very little care and provides months of interest.
• Cut back all dead leaves and stems in late winter or early spring before new growth begins
• Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or by division in late winter or early spring. Divide every few years to maintain vigor.
• Native from Mexico to Argentina.