Achnatherum calamagrostis is an elegant addition to any yard or flowerbed. This grass develops lovely silvery plumes that mature to tan during the early summer and lasts into the winter. Watching it serenely sway in the breeze will surely bring a sense of peace.
Description
Also known as spear grass, needle grass, and silver spikes, this fine-textured grass has brightly colored flowers that blossom in the early spring. The tan blooms are lovely from June through the rest of the growing season.
It is a long-lived grass that grows in high mountain meadows in central and southern Europe, and it is a rare sight to see. With several dozen flower heads waving over a beautiful fountain of fresh green leaves, an established specimen creates a striking visual statement.
In contrast to many other ornamental types of grass, the leaf does not fade off in the middle of the clump as it matures.
Height: 28 Inches
Spread: 3 feet
Flower Height: 4 feet
Sunlight: Full sun to partial sun
Hardiness Zone: 5-8
General Care
Lighting
This plant does best in full sun to partial shade.
Regardless of the site, light conditions alter during the day, and even throughout the year. So take your time to map the light and shadow patterns in and around your home. Once you know which areas receive how much direct sunlight each day, select an appropriate spot for your achnatherum calamagrostis.
A house’s northern and eastern sides receive the least amount of light, with the northern exposure being the shadiest. Due to the powerful afternoon sun, the western and southern sides of a home receive the most light and are considered the warmest exposures. However, neighboring structures or large trees might influence these conditions.
Watering
Every living organism needs water. It is critical to provide any plant with the right amount of water to promote good health. If there is insufficient water, the roots wither, causing the plant to wilt and die. Excessive watering deprives roots of oxygen, resulting in root and stem rot.
Water deeply but infrequently. While watering, provide enough water to thoroughly soak the root ball. For in-ground plants, this entails thoroughly soaking the soil until water has penetrated to a depth of 6 to 7 inches (1 foot is preferable). Water container-grown plants enough to allow water to pass through the drainage holes.
Water plants early in the morning or late in the afternoon to reduce plant stress. Watering early in the day has the advantage of allowing water to evaporate from leaves before nightfall.
Consider water-saving methods such as drip irrigation (which brings moisture directly to the roots), mulching (which helps keep the root zone cool and moist), and xeriscaping.
