Mexican Feather Grass
Nassella tenuissima 'Mexican Feather Grass'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southwestern US, Mexico, and South America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Nassella tenuissima is a fine-textured, clump-forming ornamental grass with hair-like, bright green leaves that arch gracefully. In summer, it produces feathery, silvery-green flower panicles that mature to a golden tan. Note: Can be invasive in some regions through self-seeding. This cultivar is prized for its delicate, feathery texture and its ability to create stunning, drought-tolerant ground cover or accent in xeriscape gardens and naturalistic plantings.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained soil in spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Mist cuttings or sow seeds directly in early spring.
- Thin plants to prevent overcrowding in late spring.
- Divide in early spring or fall every 2-3 years.
- Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water moderately during dry periods 🌱
- Prune back in late winter to maintain shape
- Mulch around base to retain moisture
- Divide every few years for health
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Plant in poorly drained soil
- Allow to become overly dense
- Neglect pruning and division
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mexican Feather Grass questions
What zones can Mexican Feather Grass grow in?
Mexican Feather Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Mexican Feather Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Mexican Feather Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Mexican Feather Grass bloom?
Mexican Feather Grass typically blooms in late spring to summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Mexican Feather Grass need full sun?
Mexican Feather Grass does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Mexican Feather Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mexican Feather Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Mexican Feather Grass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
