About
A clump-forming, evergreen grass producing a mound of leaves to about 30cm, topped by whorled flowerheads, like a very fine horsetail, silvery green in summer then turning pale buff and remaining on the plant all winter.
About the genus
Oryzopsis are perennial, evergreen clump-forming plants from the grass family offering a variety of attractive ornamental grasses which can flower all year round. Commonly known as Ricegrass, they can be used in mixed ornamental borders or gravel gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeGrass Like
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden
Native toEurope, Asia Africa
Care notes
CultivationGrow in medium to light, moderately fertile soil in full sun. See ornamental grasses cultivation
PruningRemove dead leaves and flower stems in spring
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or by division in late winter or early spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free