Species

grass

Common Tussock Grass

The Story

Plant Bio

Poa labillardierei, commonly known as common tussock grass, is a dense, fine-textured perennial grass native to southeastern Australia that forms large, arching clumps of narrow foliage. In late spring, the foliage dome is topped by delicate, open panicles of greenish or silvery-bronze flowers held on erect stems.

'Eskdale' is distinguished by its intense steel-blue foliage color and a more upright, compact growth habit than the wild species. This cultivar also exhibits superior tolerance for heavy clay soils and temporary wetness, making it highly adaptable in cultivation.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking steel-blue color, fine texture, and architectural movement in borders and mass plantings.

Excellent for erosion control on slopes and highly tolerant of heavy clay soils once established.

Provides nesting material and protective cover for small birds and beneficial insects, while seeds feed granivorous birds.

SpeciesPoa labillardiereiCommon Tussock-grass

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

35"

Width

24"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Summer

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to light shade with well-draining loam or clay soil.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and of equal depth, ensuring the crown sits level with the surrounding soil.
Water deeply immediately after planting to settle the soil around the roots, and maintain regular moisture until established.
Apply a thin layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the foliage crown to prevent rot.

Pro Tip

Cut the entire clump back to six to twelve inches from the base in late winter to clear out accumulated dead thatch and stimulate vibrant new blue foliage; cutting into the old, woody crown will kill the plant.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune the foliage hard in late winter to remove dead thatch and encourage fresh blue growth.
Wear gloves when handling the plant to avoid minor skin abrasions from the sharp leaf edges.
Ensure the soil has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot.

Don't

Do not cut back into the old, woody crown at the base, as this will kill the plant.
Do not over-fertilize, as excess nutrients cause weak, floppy foliage growth.
Do not plant in permanently wet depressions or sumps without subsurface drainage.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Mass PlantingBorder EdgingErosion ControlRock GardenCoastal Garden

Companion Plants

Festuca glauca Achillea millefolium Salvia nemorosa Echinacea purpurea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Common Tussock Grass questions

What zones can Common Tussock Grass grow in?

Common Tussock Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Common Tussock Grass deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Common Tussock Grass, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Common Tussock Grass bloom?

Common Tussock Grass typically blooms in late spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Common Tussock Grass need full sun?

Common Tussock Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Common Tussock Grass drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Common Tussock Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.