New Zealand Wind Grass growing guide

New Zealand Wind Grass

Botanical: Anemanthele lessoniana Syn. Stipa arundinacea
Plant Type: Evergreen rhizomatous perennial
Size (HxW): 50-100cm x 50-100cm
Depth & Spacing: Plant at the same depth as in the pot, with the roots spread evenly below the soil. Space 80-90cm apart, closer for more immediate effect.
Soil: Moderately fertile to humus rich, well drained soil.
Aspect: Full Sun to Semi Shade
Climate: Cool to Mediterranean
Frost: Hardy
Water: Water to establish then they are dry tolerant so only need to be watered occasionally if rainfall is low.
Fertiliser: A light application of a well balanced fertiliser spring, they are not heavy feeders.
Flowering Time: Summer to autumn
After Flower Care: Remove spent flowers to tidy or avoid seeds dropping. Comb through foliage with your fingers to remove dead leaves as required.
Notes: Each plant will last around four years, they should then be replaced, the seed is viable and will self sow or can be collected for sowing in autumn. Comb through to remove old leaves in early spring. A good hair cut after around two years in early spring will allow the new spring foliage to shine and keep it nice and tidy as well as encouraging perennial tendencies. Do this if it has dried out significantly and the foliage has turned a straw colour.

New Zealand Wind Grass