Stipa arundinacea (Pheasant’s Tail Grass) – Graceful Movement and Year-Round Colour

Stipa arundinacea, also known as Pheasant’s Tail Grass (Anemanthele lessoniana), is a graceful, semi-evergreen ornamental grass that brings movement, colour, and texture to any garden. Its fine, arching leaves are green in spring, gradually developing fiery shades of copper, orange, and red as the seasons change — especially in full sun.

From late summer into autumn (August to October), it produces delicate, feathery flower plumes that shimmer in the breeze and add a soft, airy quality to borders, gravel gardens, and containers.

Best positioned in full sun or light shade, this grass thrives in well-drained soil and is particularly suited to informal or naturalistic planting schemes. It is wind and drought tolerant once established and ideal for coastal gardens.

Care tips: Water regularly during the first growing season to help roots establish. Thereafter, it is very low-maintenance and tolerant of dry conditions.

Feed in spring with a light application of balanced fertiliser if needed.

Prune by combing through dead or tired foliage with your hands or shears in late winter or early spring to allow new growth to shine.

Stipa arundinacea is a beautiful, flowing grass that adds effortless charm and year-round interest to UK gardens.