Anemanthele lessoniana (Pheasant's Tail Grass or New Zealand Wind Grass)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Name | Anemanthele lessoniana (Pheasant's Tail Grass) |
| Common Name | Pheasant's Tail Grass, New Zealand Wind Grass |
| Plant Type | Ornamental grass |
| Height | 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) |
| Spread | 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) |
| Flower Color | Inconspicuous flowers |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to early summer |
| Foliage | Fine, arching, reddish-brown blades |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to light shade |
| Soil | Well-draining, average soil |
| Watering | Moderate |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Uses | Borders, rock gardens, containers |
| Notable Feature | Graceful, delicate foliage, year-round interest |
Planting Aspects
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Site Selection: Choose a location with full sun to light shade. Pheasant's Tail Grass is versatile in terms of sun exposure.
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Soil Preparation: Prepare well-draining soil, as this grass prefers soil that doesn't retain too much moisture.
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Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the nursery container, ensuring that the crown of the plant is level with the soil surface.
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Spacing: Space plants about 2 to 3 feet apart to allow for their mature spread.
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Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the establishment period. Once established, it becomes more drought-tolerant.
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Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
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Maintenance: Trim back old growth in late winter or early spring before new growth appears to maintain the plant's tidy appearance.
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Fertilizing: Pheasant's Tail Grass generally doesn't require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring can support healthy growth.
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Winter Care: The grass provides year-round interest, and winter care is minimal.
Pheasant's Tail Grass (Anemanthele lessoniana) is an elegant ornamental grass admired for its fine, arching reddish-brown blades that sway gracefully in the wind. It adds texture and movement to borders, rock gardens, and containers, making it a versatile choice for garden design. This grass is particularly cherished for its year-round interest, enhancing your landscape in all seasons.