In some areas of the western United States grasses of the genus Stipa form a significant part of the understory of Blue Oak savannas, and were even a more important element prehistorically before the invasion of many European grasses. Certain specific prairie plant associations are dominated by grasses of the genus Stipa, which genus often lends its name to the terminology of some prairie types. Species of the genus Stipa can occur in grasslands or in savanna habitats. It is a coarse grass with inrolled leaves and a panicle patterned inflorescence. One former species, esparto grass ( Macrochloa tenacissima), is used for crafts and extensively in paper making. Several species such as Stipa brachytricha, S. They are placed in the subfamily Pooideae and the tribe Stipeae, which also contains many species formerly assigned to Stipa, which have since been reclassified into new genera. Stipa is a genus of around 300 large perennial hermaphroditic grasses collectively known as feather grass, needle grass, and spear grass. You should also cut it back in fall prior to bringing the plant indoors or in late winter/early spring for those left outdoors in suitable climates.For other senses of this term, see Speech transmission index, Luigi Stipa, Stipa-Caproni The plant is drought tolerant so watering sufficiently every week or two should be adequate.Īlthough not required, you can give it an annual feeding with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in spring to help stimulate new growth. Take Care of Purple Fountain GrassĬaring for purple fountain grass is also easy. Dig a hole both deep and wide enough to accommodate the roots and then water your purple fountain grass thoroughly. Since mature plants can reach about four feet tall (1 m.) and just as wide, they should be given plenty of room in the garden, spacing additional plants at least three to five feet (1-1.5 m.) apart. These plants need to be placed in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Although it can be planted nearly anytime, spring is the most suitable time for planting. Once the threat of freezing weather and frost has passed in spring, you can set the purple fountain grass back outdoors. Keep the plant moist, not soggy, watering it about once a month. You can cut it back to about three inches (8 cm.) or so and then place it either in a sunny window in a cool area of the home or simply place it in your basement. However, it is still possible to enjoy this plant year after year when grown in a container and brought indoors for overwintering. In fact, in cooler regions the plant is normally treated as an annual instead.
Therefore, it is important that this be a consideration prior to planting purple fountain grass, as the likelihood of its return each year in zones 6 or lower is slim to none. This ornamental grass cannot survive cold winters and is hardy only in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9 and warmer (though in Zones 7-8 it can sometimes reappear given adequate winter protection). While purple fountain grass is known as a perennial, it is actually considered a tender perennial. Growing purple fountain grass is easy and requires little maintenance once established. The purple or burgundy-colored foliage and soft, fuzzy-like blooms (which are followed by purplish seedheads) make a bold statement in the garden-on their own or grouped with other plantings. Of all the ornamental grasses, of which there are many, purple fountain grass ( Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’) is probably one of the most popular.
0 kommentar(er)
