Deschampsia cespitosa
Deschampsia cespitosa
Tufted Hairgrass
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Taxonomy
Family Poaceae · Genus Deschampsia
Description
Deschampsia cespitosa, or tufted hairgrass, is a graceful cool-season clumping grass with airy, shimmering panicles that glow in low light. It thrives in moist soils, bringing soft movement and texture to meadows, rain gardens, and woodland edges.
Common Names
Tufted HairgrassHair GrassTussock Grass
Context
nativeRegion
Widespread across cool-temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America (circumboreal).
usdaZones
4–9
companionPlants
Carex spp. (sedges), Juncus effusus (soft rush), Iris sibirica (Siberian iris), Primula japonica (candelabra primrose), Astilbe, Filipendula ulmaria (meadowsweet), Ferns (e.g., Athyrium)
culturalUses
Ornamental for naturalistic plantings, meadows, and rain gardens; used in habitat restoration, erosion control, and as wildlife cover and seed source.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun to part shade; prefers afternoon shade in warmer climates.
WateringKeep evenly moist; tolerates wet soils and brief flooding. Do not allow to fully dry for extended periods.
SoilMoist, humus-rich loam to peaty soil; tolerates clay if not stagnant. pH slightly acidic to neutral; good drainage still beneficial.
FertilizerLight feeder. Apply a balanced, slow‑release fertilizer in early spring; avoid heavy nitrogen to reduce flopping.
HumidityAverage to high humidity is fine; ensure airflow to prevent fungal issues.
TemperatureHardy in cool to temperate climates; best growth 50–75°F (10–24°C). Can struggle in prolonged heat; heat dormancy possible.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitPerennial, cool-season, densely tufted bunchgrass with fine, arching blades and airy panicles.
Mature SizeFoliage 18–36 in tall and 12–24 in wide; flowering stems 30–48 in.
Growth RateModerate.
BloomingEarly to mid-summer; airy, shimmering panicles that often persist into winter.
DormancySemi-evergreen in mild climates; dies back in cold winters and may go semi-dormant during hot, dry periods.
Propagation
MethodsDivision, Seed
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonEarly spring or early fall for division; sow seed in spring or autumn (light aids germination).
Maintenance & Notes
PruningComb or cut back old foliage to 3–6 in in late winter or very early spring; remove spent flower stalks if self-seeding is undesirable.
RepottingIn containers, divide and refresh soil every 2–3 years to maintain vigor.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally trouble-free; may develop rust or leaf spots in stagnant, humid conditions and crown rot in poorly drained soils. Usually deer and rabbit resistant.
ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.
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