Like a living sculpture that dances with every breeze, Stipa arundinacea brings movement and seasonal drama to Irish gardens with its graceful, flowing habit and spectacular autumn transformation. This enchanting New Zealand native creates a fountain of colour that shifts through the seasons, perfectly capturing the wild beauty of our coastal landscapes whilst thriving in our temperate climate.

The slender, arching leaves emerge fresh green in spring, creating elegant cascading mounds that sway hypnotically in the gentlest breeze. As summer progresses into autumn, the magic truly begins - the entire plant transforms into a glorious tapestry of amber, orange, and bronze tones that seem to glow from within, earning its evocative common name of Pheasant's Tail Grass.

Delicate purple-bronze flower plumes emerge in summer like gossamer threads, adding ethereal beauty before developing into attractive seed heads that catch the light beautifully through winter months. This remarkable grass embodies the spirit of naturalistic gardening, bringing wild elegance to formal and informal spaces alike.

Perfect for prairie-style plantings, coastal gardens, or as a stunning specimen in contemporary borders, Stipa arundinacea pairs beautifully with late-flowering perennials, sedums, and other ornamental grasses. Its tolerance of salt winds makes it invaluable for Irish coastal gardens, whilst its architectural form suits modern garden designs perfectly.

Plant in well-drained soil of any type - tolerates clay, sand, and chalk equally well. Excellent drainage prevents winter waterlogging which can damage plants. Space 60-90cm apart to allow for full development and air circulation.

Thrives in full sun for best autumn colour but tolerates partial shade. Very drought tolerant once established and requires minimal watering. Tolerates coastal conditions including salt spray exceptionally well.

Cut back to 15-20cm in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Avoid cutting back in autumn as the dried foliage provides winter protection and interest. Comb through gently in spring to remove any dead material.

Divide established clumps every 4-5 years in spring to maintain vigour. Lift carefully as roots can be brittle.

Excellent for adding movement to static plantings and provides year-round interest. The autumn colour display is particularly spectacular when backlit by low winter sun. Attractive to small birds who enjoy the seeds.