Botanical name:

Anemanthele lessoniana

Common name(s):

Gossamer Grass, Oryzopsis lessoniana, Stipa arundinacea, Wind Grass

About:

A tussock-forming grass with narrow, drooping green leaves that transition to stunning gold, copper, and red hues in autumn and winter. In summer, it produces feathery green and purple flower heads. Hardy, fast-growing, and spreading, this grass has become a favorite among landscapers and home gardeners. Ideal for borders, it pairs beautifully with a variety of plants, adding texture and seasonal interest to any garden.

Natural habitat:

Sea level to montane forest, forest margins, scrub and on cliff faces and associated talus.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought, Salt, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

North Island, North Auckland, Waikato and southern third of the island. South Island from Nelson and Marlborough south, mainly in the east. Also occurs as a cultivation escape in some places for example Auckland City.

Height: 1.5m

Flowering:

(October-) January (-March) with a Green/purple feathery, flower head.

Fruiting:

(November-) February (-May)

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Riparian plantings & Pioneer Plantings.

How to grow:

Easy from fresh seed, often naturalises in gardens and can become very invasive. Can be grown in a variety of situations but does best in dry soil in full sun or partial shade under trees. Does not like damp soils.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. Sow seed direct & keep moist until germination is complete.