Overview
Stipa ramosissima is a clump-forming grass in the genus Stipa, part of the Poaceae family, with linear leaves foliage. Stipa ramosissima 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 ramosissima, commonly known as stout bamboo grass, is a clump-forming perennial grass within the Stipa genus, which includes both evergreen and deciduous species. It features arching, linear leaves and produces narrow panicles with spikelets and long awns during summer and autumn. This grass thrives in full sun on well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH, ideally in a sheltered, south-facing aspect. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suited to borders and prairie-style plantings and can be propagated by division or seed.
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 4.0 — Stipa
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 ramosissima 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 ramosissima
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-resistant
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-resistant
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Stipa ramosissima?
Stipa ramosissima prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Stipa ramosissima need?
Stipa ramosissima grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Stipa ramosissima hardy in the UK?
Stipa ramosissima 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 ramosissima?
Division, seed.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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More in the Stipa genus
- Stipafeather grass
- Stipa arundinaceaPheasant's Tail Grass
- Stipa capillatavery slender feather grass
- Stipa pulcherimma