Various plants are available under the name maidenhair grass. While Scirpus cernuus tends to be kept as a houseplant, Stipa tenuissima is also suitable for planting in flower borders and beds. Therefore, this text refers to the Stipa tenuissima.

Maidenhair grass does not like waterlogging

Stipa stands for feather grass, which says a lot about the feathery appearance of these plants. In German, Stipa tenuissima has a lot of very euphonious names, such as angel hair, heron feather grass or maidenhair grass.

Maidenhair grass is a sweet grass. The culms are up to 80 cm long. However, since they tend to lean, the plant is only about 60 cm high, which in no way detracts from its beauty. However, there are also dwarf varieties and particularly large ones.

Where does the maidenhair grass feel particularly at home?

Maidenhair grass is often only grown once a year, so you can plant it almost anywhere in your garden, as long as it is bright enough there. If you want to make the most of the full lifespan of three to four years, put your Maidenhair Grass in a sunny spot with light, well-drained soil. Stipa tenuissima fits very well in a prairie garden or in a wild herb border.

In summer, the delicate, almost inconspicuous flowers of the Stipa tenuissima appear, which then sway gently in the wind, a nice contrast to the colorful flowering perennials in the neighborhood. Under no circumstances should you cut back the maidenhair grass in autumn, otherwise you will miss an eye-catcher in your winter garden. If pruning is necessary, wait until early spring to do so.

Can I also plant my maidenhair grass by the pond?

Stipa tenuissima does not tolerate waterlogging, there is a risk of rot. Therefore, this plant is not directly suitable for pond planting. It is better to put your maidenhair grass a little apart, perhaps in the background of your pond, where it doesn't get "wet feet". You will be able to enjoy this slender plant longer than if you planted it directly at the edge of the pond.

The essentials in brief:

  • hardy
  • not very persistent
  • Lifetime approx. 3 to 4 years
  • sunny location
  • slightly permeable soil
  • no waterlogging
  • do not fertilize
  • only cut in early spring

tips

Although maidenhair grass is a hardy ornamental grass, it usually has to be replaced after a few years because it is not particularly persistent.

Category:

Vegetable garden