1 named cultivar

‘Ponytails’Ponytails Mexican Feather Grass

grass

Mexican Feather Grass

Stipa tenuissima

$39.95

The Story

Plant Bio

A tender perennial grass, often grown as an annual, known for its fine, wispy texture and graceful movement in the wind. Note: Can be invasive in some regions.

The inflorescence has a delicate appearance and is visually striking, particularly when backlit by the sun.

Uses & Benefits:

Stipa tenuissima adds delicate, silvery texture to gardens, creating movement and visual interest.

Its drought tolerance reduces water needs, making it ideal for xeriscaping.

Provides habitat and food for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southwestern US, Mexico, Argentina

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Garden Goods Direct

In Stock$39.95

Nature Hills

In Stock$60.63

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings lightly to maintain humidity during propagation.
Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency.
Thin out overcrowded plants to improve airflow.
Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy soil for best growth and drought tolerance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune dead or damaged foliage in late winter
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer
Mulch to retain soil moisture and prevent weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize excessively, as it may reduce drought tolerance
Refrain from disturbing roots during peak growing season
Don’t prune in late fall, wait until late winter

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

Silvery ornamental grass borderTextural accent in prairie gardensDrought-tolerant mass planting

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum EchinaceaRussian Sage Blue Fescue

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 7–10. 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 through early summer. 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 to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

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.