About

A deciduous grass forming dense clumps of arching, inrolled leaves that emerge dark green before maturing to a deep red colour. Sprays of tiny green to beige flowers are borne in summer above the foliage.

About the genus

Eragrostis can be annual or perennial grasses with linear leaves and dense branched flowering panicles in summer and autumn

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeGrass Like
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting

Care notes

CultivationGrow in medium to light, moderately fertile soil in a warm, sunny site. In colder areas may need some winter protection
PruningCut back old stems to the ground in early spring before growth resumes
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free