As Seen On Dragons' Den! Use Code 'DRAGONS' For 10% Off Your First Order!
Back
Stipa pennata
Stipa pennata
Stipa pennata
Stipa pennata

Stipa pennata

TAXONOMY

FamilyPoaceae
GenusStipa
Zone4

ABOUT

Stipa pennata, commonly known as Feather Grass or Needle Grass, is a perennial grass native to the temperate regions of Europe and Asia. It is known for its delicate, feathery seed heads that sway gracefully in the wind. This plant is well-suited to dry, open habitats and is often found in steppes and grasslands. It undergoes a dormancy period during the winter months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Feather Grass
Aristida pennata var. rigida
Stipa anomala
Stipa appendiculata
Stipa austriaca
Stipa austroitalica subsp. appendiculata
Stipa austroitalica var. appendiculata
Stipa balcanica
Stipa borysthenica subsp. germanica
Stipa disjuncta
Stipa dvorakii
Stipa eriocaulis
Stipa eriocaulis subsp. austriaca
Stipa eriocaulis subsp. dvorakii
Stipa eriocaulis subsp. kiemii
Stipa eriocaulis subsp. lithophila
Stipa eriocaulis subsp. lutetiana
Stipa gallica
Stipa germanica
Stipa graniticola
Stipa iberica f. laevis
Stipa iberica var. pygmaea
Stipa joannis
Stipa joannis f. okensis
Stipa joannis subsp. balcanica
Stipa joannis subsp. germanica
Stipa joannis subsp. sabulosa
Stipa lejophylla
Stipa lithophila
Stipa mediterranea subsp. gallica
Stipa oligotricha
Stipa oligotricha subsp. kiemii
Stipa pennata f. gallica
Stipa pennata f. penicillifera
Stipa pennata f. sabulosa
Stipa pennata subsp. austriaca
Stipa pennata subsp. dvorakii
Stipa pennata subsp. eriocaulis
Stipa pennata subsp. joannis
Stipa pennata subsp. kiemii
Stipa pennata subsp. lejophylla
Stipa pennata subsp. lithophila
Stipa pennata var. appendiculata
Stipa pennata var. austriaca
Stipa pennata var. gallica
Stipa pennata var. joannis
Stipa pennata var. okensis
Stipa pennata var. rigida
Stipa pulcherrima var. austriaca
Stipa pulcherrima var. gallica
Stipa sabulosa
Stipa tauricola
Stipa veneta
Stipa vulgaris

OVERVIEW

WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

DETAILS

Care Instructions
Feather Grass thrives in full sun and requires minimal watering once established. It prefers moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range of humidity levels. This hardy plant is relatively low-maintenance and can withstand drought conditions.
Soil
Stipa pennata prefers well-draining soil, ideally a loamy mix. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but performs best in moderately fertile soil. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
This plant does not require regular fertilization. If desired, a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote growth, but it generally thrives in nutrient-poor soils.
Repotting
Feather Grass can be repotted if necessary, typically in the spring. Choose a pot with good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix. Handle the roots gently to avoid damage.
Propagation
Stipa pennata can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds can be sown in the spring, while division is best done in early spring or fall. Ensure that each division has a healthy root system.
Pruning
Pruning is not generally required for Feather Grass. However, you can trim back dead or damaged foliage in early spring to encourage new growth.
Toxicity
Stipa pennata is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. It is safe to grow in gardens where pets and children are present.
Additional
Feather Grass is an excellent choice for xeriscaping and can be used in ornamental gardens for its attractive seed heads. It is also a valuable plant for erosion control on slopes and embankments.
REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor

Plant Monitor

STAYS IN YOUR PLANT

Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).

Shop Now
Mobile App

Mobile App

DOWNLOAD ON YOUR DEVICE

Evaluates your plants' data, current weather, seasonality and more to precisely notify you about your plants needs. The app also comes loaded with many extra features to ensure your plants flourish.

newsletter background

Join Our Growing Community

Join for 10% off your first purchase, exclusive offers, better plant care, and more

How To Grow Stipa pennata | EarthOne