Stipa capillata Seeds | Needle Grass
LATIN NAME: Stipa capillata
COMMON NAME: Needle Grass
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Needle Grass (Stipa capillata) is a grass in the grass family. Awns twist and untwist with moisture, working seeds into the soil. It likes sun, and light, well-drained soil. Bees find the flowers quickly, and that pollinator traffic is a garden benefit in its own right. Few species give back so generously for so little effort.
Science & Biotechnology
Research touching on Stipa capillata ranges from the botany of the grass family to practical horticulture, including seed handling, propagation and the selection of superior forms. In grass family, needle grasses have a recognised place in studies of steppe plants, and capillata species appears in research on awn mechanics and drought hardiness. Because it has been grown for so long, its garden habits are thoroughly documented.
Uses & Benefits
Needle Grass works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. In dry, sunny garden, needle grass silks border with silver in the summer. Silky awns catch light and wind, giving soft, moving shimmer, tidy tufts hold form through season, and plant feeds grazing animals on the steppes. It grows well in light, well-drained, sunny ground. Getting it going is easy; keeping it going is easier still.
Feather grasses are the poetry of dry gardens, their silky awns catching evening light; they are forage and ornament, not pharmacy.
Growing from Seed
Starting Needle Grass from seed is simple and satisfying. Sow on the surface of a gritty, well-drained mix, cover lightly with fine compost, and maintain gentle, even moisture in a sunny position. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.
Our Take
Being a grass, it asks for a permanent spot and repays it yearly. Moisture matters most while plants are young; established plants cope with far more.
Related Reading
More species in the same orbit as Needle Grass: