Tufted Hairgrass
Deschampsia cespitosa · Tufted Hair-grassUSDA | Grow Zone
4-8Outdoors all year in zones 4 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Consistently moist soil
- Humidity
- Moderate humidity
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 2-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide
Tufted Hairgrass, or Deschampsia cespitosa, is a charming ornamental grass native to wetlands and meadows. Known for its airy tufts and adaptability, it adds texture and movement to gardens while thriving in various conditions.
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Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 2-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Tufted Hairgrass prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its active growing season in spring and early summer.
Water deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In hotter months, you may need to increase frequency. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering can cause browning leaf tips and wilting.
Light
This grass thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Ideally, it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but it can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates. Too much shade may lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Soil
Deschampsia cespitosa prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
It benefits from a mix that retains some moisture while allowing excess water to drain away. A recommended potting mix includes equal parts of peat, compost, and sand.
Humidity
This grass is adaptable to various humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity.
To increase humidity, consider misting the plant or placing a humidity tray nearby. Signs of humidity stress include browning leaf tips and stunted growth.
Temperature
Tufted Hairgrass thrives in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 24 degrees Celsius).
It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8, tolerating cold temperatures but may struggle in extreme heat. During summer, ensure adequate watering to prevent heat stress.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, applying it once in early spring and again in mid-summer.
Fertilize every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season for optimal growth. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor growth.
Pruning
Prune Tufted Hairgrass in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use sharp garden shears to cut back old foliage to about 2-3 inches above the ground. This encourages fresh growth and maintains a tidy appearance. Deadheading is not necessary, as the grass naturally sheds old flowers.
Repotting
Repot Tufted Hairgrass every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes or stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh soil.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through division or seeds.
For division, carefully dig up the clump in early spring or fall, and separate it into smaller sections, ensuring each has roots. Replant immediately. For seeds, sow them in spring after the last frost, lightly covering them with soil and keeping them moist until germination.
When it's unhappy
Yellowing leaves
Why it happens
Often caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture levels and adjust watering frequency. Consider applying a balanced fertilizer.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Typically a sign of under-watering or low humidity.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency and consider misting the plant or using a humidity tray.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light can lead to weak, elongated stems.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a sunnier location to ensure it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Root rot
Why it happens
Caused by over-watering and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Ensure the soil drains well and reduce watering frequency. If root rot occurs, remove affected roots and repot in fresh soil.
Pests (e.g., aphids)
Why it happens
Aphids can infest the plant, especially in warm weather.
How to fix it
Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations and keep the plant healthy.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune back old foliage to encourage new growth and begin a regular watering schedule as the plant comes out of dormancy.
Summer
During summer, ensure the plant receives adequate water, especially in hot weather, and consider applying a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy, and consider mulching around the base to protect roots from cold temperatures.
Winter
In winter, limit watering and avoid fertilizing. Protect the plant from extreme cold by covering it with mulch if necessary.
Toxicity & Safety
Tufted Hairgrass is non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe choice for gardens and landscapes. No known toxic parts.
Good to know
How often should I water my Tufted Hairgrass?
Water your Tufted Hairgrass deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, especially during hot months.
What type of soil is best for Tufted Hairgrass?
A well-draining loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 is ideal for Tufted Hairgrass, ensuring it retains some moisture while draining excess water.
Why are my Tufted Hairgrass leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate over-watering or nutrient deficiency. Check soil moisture and consider fertilizing if needed.
Can Tufted Hairgrass tolerate shade?
Yes, Tufted Hairgrass can tolerate partial shade but thrives best in full sun, receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
When is the best time to prune Tufted Hairgrass?
Prune Tufted Hairgrass in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to encourage fresh growth and maintain a tidy appearance.
How do I propagate Tufted Hairgrass?
You can propagate Tufted Hairgrass through division or seeds. For division, separate clumps in early spring or fall and replant immediately.
What are the signs of humidity stress in Tufted Hairgrass?
Signs of humidity stress include browning leaf tips and stunted growth. Increase humidity by misting or using a humidity tray.
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