Stipa Collection

The Stipa collection helps you rediscover the simple and natural beauty of perennial grasses. It includes three different species of Stipa, each bringing a unique texture to the garden. These grasses are characterised by their fine and supple leaves, which dance with the slightest breeze, and their light and airy inflorescences, which are very bright from May to August. Highly drought-resistant, perfectly suited for dry gardens or coastal areas, they add movement and a refined charm to any decor.

The collection consists of:

1 x Stipa tenuifolia (Angel hair): this low grass reaches about 40 cm in height. Its fine, pale green foliage turns golden in autumn. Its silky blonde flower spikes appear as early as the beginning of summer.

1 x Stipa gigantea (Giant feather grass): the largest in the collection, it reaches a height of 2 m. Its tall, golden flower stems are spectacular and tower over clumps of olive green foliage. It flowers from June to July.

1 x Stipa arundinacea (Anemanthele lessoniana): a medium-sized grass reaching 1 m in height. Its green-bronze foliage takes on beautiful coppery hues in autumn. Its light inflorescences bloom from July to September-October. This variety is sensitive to temperatures below -9 °C.

These grasses are ideally planted in spring (in a humid and damp climate) or in autumn (in a dry and warm climate), in very well-drained soil and full sun. Position the Stipa gigantea in the background due to its tall stature, the Stipa arundinacea to the side, and the Stipa tenuifolia in the foreground or at the edge of the border. In regions with cold and wet winters, it is advisable to grow Stipa arundinacea in pots that can be protected or moved. Maintain a distance of 50 cm between each young plant and plan for 4 to 5 plants per square metre for optimal coverage and a beautiful mass effect. In pots, mix compost with sand to ensure perfect drainage.

To complete this Stipa grass collection, choose perennial plants that thrive in well-drained, even dry soil. Achillea millefolium 'Terracotta', with its orange flowers and fine fern-like foliage, will contrast beautifully with the simplicity of the grasses. Salvia microphylla 'Blue Note', a shrub sage with deep blue flowers, will add height and a soothing blue hue to balance the warm and golden tones of the other plants. Complete the arrangement with Eryngium planum 'Blue Hobbit' (Blue sea holly) with its metallic blue inflorescences. Plant 3 Achillea plants in front of the grasses, 2 or 3 salvias mixed in with them, and place 2 Eryngiums in the background or as small touches throughout your composition. These plants will cover approximately 5 m².