Description
Deschampsia caespitosa, commonly known as tufted hair grass, is a graceful, cool-season ornamental grass valued for its fine texture, shimmering seed heads, and adaptability to a variety of garden settings. Native to temperate regions across Europe, Asia, and North America, it forms dense, arching clumps of narrow green leaves and brings a light, airy quality to both naturalistic and formal landscapes.
This perennial grass typically grows to about 60–90 cm in height, with flowering stems rising up to 120–150 cm. In early to mid-summer, it produces delicate, airy flower panicles in shades of gold, silver, or bronze. These float above the foliage and catch the light beautifully, adding movement and sparkle to the garden. The flower heads often persist into autumn and winter, providing continued interest and habitat for wildlife.
Deschampsia caespitosa thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil, although it can tolerate occasional dryness once established. It is low-maintenance, non-invasive, and suited for mixed borders, meadow-style plantings, or damp spots like pond edges.
Not indigenous to South Africa, it still adapts well to similar climates and makes an elegant, textured addition to water-wise or shade-tolerant garden designs. Deer-resistant and bird-friendly, it’s both beautiful and ecologically valuable.
