Deschampsia cespitosa Vivipara

Deschampsia cespitosa 'Vivipara' is a variety of tufted hair grass whose name evokes its ability to produce young plants instead of flowers at the end of its floral stems, a unique phenomenon among these grasses. Its other characteristics are similar to those of the wild species: its habit is dense, with a slightly arched tuft, and its long and slender leaves remain evergreen in winter. It is a medium-sized perennial grass, which remains ornamental all year round. It is very hardy, and easy to grow in moist soil. This curious variety with a papyrus-like appearance deserves a prominent place in the garden. Plant it close to a walkway, near a pond, or in a large pot on a patio.

Deschampsia cespitosa is a perennial grass with a densely tufted, non-spreading habit, belonging to the Poaceae family. It is native to Europe, temperate Asia, and boreal America, where it easily grows in various moist and uncultivated places. Very long-lived, this extremely hardy plant self-seeds quite easily, but the young seedlings can be easily removed.

The curious 'Vivipara' form, from which it originated, forms a beautiful upright, well-rounded tuft. It measures 70cm (28in) tall when flowering (40 to 45cm (16 to 18in) for the foliage), with a spread of about 50cm (20in). The evergreen leaves are flat, slightly arched, 2 to 5mm (1in) wide, very rough and often very long. They are of a medium green colour. In the midst of the foliage, stiff floral stems appear from June-July to September. They will not produce flowers or seeds, but tiny young tufted grasses, arranged in small trailing clusters. Sometimes the seedlings will root themselves.

Deschampsia does not interfere with neighbouring plantings and thrives at the edge of water features. This astonishing 'Vivipara' form will delight lovers of botanical curiosities, as well as enthusiasts of exotic settings. Use it on a patio, in flower beds, or around a small pond. This grass can easily replace papyrus plants, which may be more spectacular but also more demanding in terms of watering needs. 'Vivipara' will excel in flower beds, mixed with perennials with ample foliage, or planted in large masses, to bring lightness and brightness to a wild garden. It will happily accompany narcissus, daffodils, dahlias, and numerous late-season perennials (sneezeweed, echinacea, Japanese anemones, and asters).