Contents
Description
Stipa Spartea, commonly known as porcupine grass, is a native grass species found in the central and western regions of North America. This warm-season perennial grass is known for its unique appearance and is commonly used in ornamental landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Stipa |
Appearance
Stipa Spartea has a unique appearance with long, thin leaves that grow up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are green in color and have a rough texture. The plant produces flowering stems that can grow up to 6 feet tall and are topped with feathery, golden-brown flowers. The flowers bloom in the late summer and add a stunning visual interest to any landscape.
Care Guide
Stipa Spartea is a low-maintenance grass that requires minimal care. It grows best in well-drained soils and prefers full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dry weather. It is hardy in zones 4-9.Water: Water the plant regularly during the first year of growth to establish a deep root system. Afterward, it can handle moderate drought conditions.Fertilization: Stipa Spartea does not require fertilizer but can benefit from an annual application of a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: Stipa Spartea grows best in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5.Sunlight: This grass requires full sun exposure to grow and bloom properly.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stipa Spartea is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to rust and leaf spot diseases. These can be treated with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Stipa Spartea is native to the central and western regions of North America. It can be found growing in prairies, savannas, and open woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stipa Spartea deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this grass is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Stipa Spartea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but requires a deep container and regular watering.
Q: How tall does Stipa Spartea grow?
A: Stipa Spartea can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Q: When does Stipa Spartea bloom?
A: The plant produces feathery, golden-brown flowers that bloom in the late summer.
Related Plants
- Stipa comata
- Stipa hymenoides
- Stipa neomexicana
- Stipa tenuissima
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Stipa spartea. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278363&isprofile=0&basic=Stipa
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Extension. (n.d.). Porcupine grass. Retrieved from https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/porcupine-grass/
- US Forest Service. (n.d.). Stipa spartea. Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/graminoid/stispa/all.html
