Stipa capillata

Stipa capillata, also known as the Capillary Stipe, is a medium-sized grass with a gently wild appearance, both dense and light. Easy to grow, it deserves to be planted more often in gardens, even in very dry soil. Its summer inflorescences of delicate silver and silky brushes, dance in the wind and play with sunlight, taking on a beautiful golden hue when mature. It is a beautiful little 'grass' with a slightly bristly habit, which never becomes invasive. It perfectly withstands cold and drought. A perennial at ease in all gardens, from the most natural to the most contemporary.

Stipa capillata is an herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Poaceae family, like many grasses. Its origin is located between southern Europe and western Asia. This plant forms a thick and turf-forming stump. It grows in clumps of very thin, rough, and glaucous green cylindrical and linear leaves. When fully grown, it will measure 40 to 80cm (16 to 32in) in all directions, with a fairly rapid growth rate. The foliage is evergreen. In summer, thin, soft and silky, silver inflorescences appear on rigid culms at the heart of the vegetation, turning golden in autumn. The seeds form at the end of summer on the inflorescences and clump together in the plant, forming a somewhat rough mass like a handful of fibres. They are dispersed by the wind and ensure the species' longevity in the garden and in nature. 

Hardy down to -15°C (5°F) in well-drained soil, it is a perfect plant for dry gardens and areas with poor and stony soil. This grass is valued for the extreme lightness of its hairy clumps and its decorative aspect for much of the year. It accompanies perennials such as linaria, penstemons, field daisies, Aster cordifolius, scabious, as well as annual poppies and Damask nigellas. The dark foliage of Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Tom Thumb', Cotinus 'Royal Purple', or Physocarpus 'Diabolo' in cooler soil will highlight its plumes that catch the light so well. Plant it in a place where you can touch it, along a path, on the edge of a patio, or in a large pot, grouping several subjects together.