Common Tussock Grass
A graceful evergreen grass from Australia that has adapted well to the UK climate, particularly in milder or coastal areas. It forms large, weeping tussocks of fine, blue-grey foliage that creates a soft, fountain-like effect. The leaves are very slender and can reach lengths of up to 80cm, moving elegantly with the breeze. In summer, it produces airy, delicate flower panicles that rise above the foliage on slender stems, adding a misty quality to the plant. It is an excellent choice for modern or minimalist gardens where its architectural form can be appreciated as a specimen plant. It is also very effective in mass plantings for a more naturalistic, meadow-like look. It prefers a sunny site with well-drained soil and is quite drought-tolerant once established. While it is generally hardy in the UK (H4), it may appreciate a sheltered spot away from drying winter winds. Maintenance is simple, needing only a light tidy-up to remove old flower heads and dead leaves in spring.
Sun: Full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Well-drained, light loam or sandy soil.
Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.
Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.