European feather grass (Stipa pennata)
Care, watering, light and tips for European feather grass on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Poaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About European feather grass
Stipa pennata, also known as Feather Grass or Plumet, is a perennial ornamental grass notable for its silky, silvery-white, feathery inflorescences. These plumes, appearing in spring and summer, sway gracefully in the breeze, creating a highly attractive visual effect. It is ideal for rock gardens, sunny borders, or as a contrasting element in flower beds.
Native range
Central and Eastern Europe, and temperate Asia
Care tips
This grass thrives in full sun exposure to achieve its best flowering and coloration. It requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or gritty, as waterlogging is its main enemy. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, and it is quite drought-tolerant once established. A common mistake is planting it in heavy, moist soils, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying European feather grass
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, dry, brittle leaves, lack of movement in its plumes.
- First aid
- Move to a sunny spot, water moderately if soil is dry. Prune heavily damaged leaves.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and lack of direct sun; it hates waterlogging and dense shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't rotted. It's quite drought and cold resistant.