Stipa Lessingiana
Contents
Description
Stipa Lessingiana, commonly known as Feather Grass, is a perennial grass species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to central Asia and is known for its striking appearance and low maintenance requirements. The plant produces abundant foliage and delicate flowers that sway in the breeze, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardens and landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Stipa |
Appearance
Stipa Lessingiana grows up to 1 meter in height and 0.5 meters in width. Its foliage is thin and feathery, with a greenish-blue color that turns yellowish-brown in autumn. The plant produces delicate flowers that are held high above the foliage, adding a touch of elegance to any garden. The flowers are usually greenish-yellow and turn brown as they age. They bloom from mid to late summer and persist through winter, providing interest and structure to the garden even in the colder months.
Care Guide
Stipa Lessingiana is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Here are some care tips to help you grow and maintain this plant:
Water: Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. After that, it can tolerate drought conditions and only needs occasional watering.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate poor soil conditions, but it will grow best in fertile soil with good drainage.
Sunlight: Stipa Lessingiana needs full sun to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade but will not produce as many flowers or grow as tall.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, which makes it suitable for most climates in the United States.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stipa Lessingiana is a relatively disease and pest-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Some common pests that may affect the plant include aphids, grasshoppers, and spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Stipa Lessingiana is native to central Asia, where it grows in dry, rocky slopes and grasslands. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate drought conditions and poor soil. The plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stipa Lessingiana deer resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer resistant and can be a good choice for gardens located in areas with high deer populations.
Q: How often should I fertilize Stipa Lessingiana?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Stipa Lessingiana in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has good drainage and receives full sun.
Q: When should I prune Stipa Lessingiana?
A: Prune the plant in early spring before new growth appears to remove any dead or damaged foliage.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:
- Stipa Gigantea
- Stipa Tenuissima
- Stipa Arundinacea
- Stipa Pulchra
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Stipa Lessingiana. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d371
- RHS Gardening. (n.d.). Stipa Lessingiana. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/15505/stipa-lessingiana/details
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Feather Grass Care: Tips for Growing Feather Grass. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/feather-grass/feather-grass-care.htm
