Silver Spikegrass

Achnatherum calamagrostis, often known as Silver Spikegrass or Needle Grass, is an elegant and robust ornamental grass well-suited to UK gardens, especially those with drier conditions. It forms dense clumps of fine, mid-green leaves that remain attractive throughout the growing season. In early to mid-summer, tall, slender, arching stems rise above the foliage, bearing graceful, feathery, silver-white flower panicles that shimmer in the sunlight. These plumes persist well into winter, gradually turning a light buff colour and providing excellent textural interest. Drought-tolerant once established, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an ideal choice for gravel gardens, Mediterranean-style plantings, or sunny borders where its effortless beauty can be admired. Note: previously known as Stipa calamagrostis.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.