June 2009 Plant of the Month —
Mexican Feather Grass

Mexican Feather Grass (shown in the foreground) grows in vase-like clumps bearing a profusion of feathery panicles reminiscent of a fountain. Photo by S. Hamilton.
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Submitted by Dr. Susan Hamilton

Mexican Feather Grass is one of the most beautiful of all the ornamental grasses. No other grass is quite so delicate or exhibits such a refined texture as does Mexican Feather Grass. Sporting the botanically name Stipa tenuissima, Mexican Feather Grass has bright green hair-like foliage that waves gracefully in the wind. It is a striking addition in the landscape.

Throughout the summer, the plant will grow in vase-like clumps that bear a profusion of feathery panicles spilling outward like a soft fountain.  As the panicles mature, they turn from a foamy-green color to blonde. Mexican Feather Grass is incredibly striking when used in mass in the garden, but it is also quite suitable for a mixed container planting.

This plant is also nicely proportioned to fit into almost any garden.  It grows to just 2.5 feet high and just as wide.

Mexican Feather Grass is a perennial that grows quickly and blooms the first year from seed.  In late winter it can be cut back to a few inches above ground level and in the spring, new foliage will appear and begin to bloom in early summer.  A truly drought-tolerant grass, Mexican Feather Grass thrives in full-sun and well-drained soil. Under the correct conditions, it can become invasive.

Other common names for Stipa tenuissima are angel hair grass and silky thread grass.

Dr. Susan Hamilton is an Associate Professor of Plant Sciences and interim director of the UT Gardens at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture in Knoxville. The UT Gardens are open public gardens that serve public horticulture teaching and research needs. Locations include Knoxville and Jackson

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Contact:

Susan Hamilton, Department of Plant Sciences, 865-974-7324

Patricia McDaniels, UTIA Marketing & Communications, 615-835-4570