Tufted Hairgrass

Deschampsia cespitosa Tufted hairgrass is a large, long-lived perennial bunchgrass that provides dense, bright green tufts of foliage to open, sunny garden areas. In early summer, it shoots up stems with iridescent, shimmering inflorescence that start out purple-ish and graduate to tan and tawny hues. These fountain-like inflorescence dance and sway up to a meter above the foliage and are quite ornamental. Like most native grasses, a patch of tufted hairgrass provides excellent habitat for countless species of arthropods and the late-season seed heads bring birds to the garden. Plant type/canopy layer: deciduous, perennial, grass Size at maturity: 24"-36" tall, 12"-24" wide Light requirements: full sun Moisture requirements: moist to wet soil Bloom Time: n/a Growth rate/ease: moderate growth rate, easy to grow Wildlife support: seeds provide food for birds; overall plant provides excellent habitat for arthropods, is eaten by bears and deer, and is a caterpillar host