Stipa splendens

Achnatherum splendens (synonym Stipa splendens, Lasiagrostis splendens) is a tall and graceful grass that is also robust. This beautiful species comes from China and Mongolia where it grows on slopes and in dry meadows. It forms a large clump with a fine texture, above which thin flower spikes spring in all directions, light as a silver breath. Perfectly hardy, easy to grow in full sun and well-drained soil, this tall feather grass deserves to be planted more often, especially in gardens without irrigation.

Stipa splendens is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Poaceae family, like many grasses. From its origins, this botanical species has retained a preference for continental climates, with very marked winters and summers, and low humidity. This plant forms both mounds and dense clumps that slowly increase in diameter and can easily occupy 1 m². Eventually, the foliage reaches a height of 1.20 to 1.50 m depending on the soil's fertility. In spring, numerous thin, somewhat flexible medium green leaves emerge from the base. The foliage is deciduous, drying up in autumn. In summer, from June to July depending on the climate, rigid stems  emerge from the clump of leaves, bearing inflorescences in the form of very long, slender, soft and silky, silver-white spikes, turning golden in autumn. This flowering can reach a height of 2 m. The seeds form in late summer on the spikes, which retain their graceful appearance until winter. The plant is hardy well below -15°C in well-drained soil.

Stipa splendens will captivate with its volume and graceful appearance. Animated by the slightest breeze, this tall plant is shaped by the wind and enhanced by the low evening light, softly rustling, almost musical. It is suitable for contemporary or naturalistic-style gardens. It can be planted with other tall grasses (Panicum, Miscanthus). In a more rustic style, in well-drained soil, it can be associated with Euphorbia characias, asphodels and clary sage for example. Dark, green or purple foliage will highlight its panicles that catch the light so well. It can be associated with Berberis thunbergii Atropurpurea or a beautiful blue conifer Picea pungens 'Glauca Globosa', for example. Plant this grass where you can enjoy it for a while, along a path, on a large slope, along a terrace...