Nasella tennuissima

Mexican Feather Grass, Pony Tails

Stipa tennuissima

Semi-evergreen Grass / Grass-Like, Perennial

Mexican Feather Grass is a flowing and feathery evergreen ornamental grass with a deceptively delicate appearance. It is very drought tolerant and easy to grow. Can be invasive in some situations, particularly in warmer climates, so watch carefully and remove unwanted seedlings. Cut back hard after flowering to reduce self-seeding. (aka Stipa tennuissima)

Growing Conditions

Zone: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun, Afternoon Sun, Reflected Heat

Water Needs: Drought-tolerant, Low, Occasional

Description

Size: 18 - 24 tall x 12 - 18 wide
Shape / Form: Clumping
Foliage Texture: Fine
Foliage Quality: Fine

Features: Attractive Foliage, Drought-tolerant / Water wise, Winter Interest, Year-round Interest

Foliage Color: Ivory / Cream
Fall Color: Bronze / Copper, Brown / Chocolate

Flower Color: Ivory / Cream
Bloom Season: Summer


Uses and Applications

Landscape Uses: Container, Erosion Control, Groundcover, Hell Strip, Lawn Alternative, Mixed Border, Naturalize
Special Situations: Low Water / No Water, Reflected Heat
Wildlife: Deer Resistant

More Design Considerations

Season of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Year-round Interest, Three Seasons of Interest
Plant Behavior: Naturalizes, Potentially Invasive, Re-seeds in some conditions

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Level: low, medium
Maintenance Tasks: Deadheading

Suitable Substitutes

Nasella cernua | nodding needlegrass

Perfect Partners

Echinacea purpurea | Purple Coneflower
Liatris spicata 'Kobold' | Blazing Star, Gayfeather

Plant Combos