Overview

Stipa bavarica is a clump-forming grass in the genus Stipa, part of the Poaceae family, with linear leaves foliage. Stipa bavarica grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders and prairie-style plantings.

About

Stipa bavarica is a clump-forming grass cultivar within the Stipa genus, known for its perennial grasses with arching, linear leaves. This cultivar thrives in full sun on well-drained, neutral loam soil, ideally in a sheltered, south-facing position. It is hardy to UK zone H4 and is suitable for borders and prairie-style plantings. Stipa bavarica produces narrow panicles with spikelets and long awns during summer and autumn, providing seasonal interest from spring through to autumn.

About the genus

Stipa is a genus of about 140 species of large perennial hermaphroditic grasses collectively known as feather grass, needle grass, and spear grass. They are placed in the subfamily Pooideae and the tribe Stipeae, which also contains many species formerly assigned to Stipa, which have since been reclassified into new genera.

Wikipedia contributors, "Stipa", CC BY-SA 4.0Stipa

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Stipa

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Stipa bavarica size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass
Habit
Clump-forming
Foliage
Linear leaves
Suggested uses
Borders, prairie-style plantings

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Stipa bavarica

Propagation
Division, seed
Pest resistance
Generally pest-resistant
Disease resistance
Generally disease-resistant

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Stipa bavarica?

Stipa bavarica prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Stipa bavarica need?

Stipa bavarica grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Stipa bavarica hardy in the UK?

Stipa bavarica 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 Stipa bavarica?

Division, seed.

More in the Stipa genus

Browse all Stipa