About
A clump-forming, ornamental perennial grass to around 1.5m, with strap-shaped, arching blue-green foliage with a white centre, turning to burgundy-red in the autumn. Upright stems of airy purple to pale brown flowers appear from July through to September.
About the genus
Spodiopogon is a diverse genus of plants that may be annual, perennial, or woody. Species are cultivated for their flowers, foliage, or architectural habit and are adapted to various climatic conditions
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeGrass Like, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Coastal
Native toSiberia, China, Japan
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moist but well drained soil in a sunny position. Will tolerate some shade, but this may reduce the intensity of autumn colour. Prefers cooler conditions and will cope in coastal regions as long as soil is kept moist. Do not allow soil to dry out. See ornamental grasses cultivation for further advice
PruningCut back in late winter or early spring
PropagationSow seed in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in spring or propagate clumps by division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free