Overview
Arundo conspicua is a plant with a tufted habit in the genus Chionochloa, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Arundo conspicua grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include foliage effect and informal screens and dividers.
About
Arundo conspicua is a deciduous, tufted cultivar of the genus Chionochloa, which belongs to the Poaceae family. It thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect, preferring moist but well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H4, this cultivar is well suited for creating informal screens and dividers, as well as adding foliage effect in the garden. Established clumps can be propagated by lifting and dividing in spring.
About the genus
Chionochloa is a genus of tussock grass in the family Poaceae, found primarily in New Zealand with one known species in New Guinea and another on Lord Howe Island. Some of the species are referred to as snowgrass or snow tussock.
Wikipedia contributors, "Chionochloa", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Chionochloa
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Chionochloa
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Arundo conspicua size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Foliage Effect, Informal Screens and Dividers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Arundo conspicua
- Propagation
- Lift and divide established clumps in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Arundo conspicua?
Arundo conspicua prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Arundo conspicua need?
Arundo conspicua grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Arundo conspicua hardy in the UK?
Arundo conspicua has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Arundo conspicua?
Lift and divide established clumps in spring.
More in the Chionochloa genus
- Chionochloa beddiei
- Chionochloa conspicuaplumed tussock grass
- Chionochloa flavescensbroad-leaved snow tussock
- Chionochloa rigidasnow tussock
