Description
Anemanthele lessoniana, commonly known as Pheasant’s Tail Grass, is a striking ornamental grass native to New Zealand. This evergreen perennial grass is valued for its graceful arching foliage, vibrant colour changes throughout the seasons, and adaptability to various garden environments. It is popular also for the leaves moving in the wind.
Botanical Characteristics:
1. **Appearance:** Anemanthele lessoniana is characterized by its fine-textured, arching leaves that range in colour from green to bronze, gold, and copper, creating a visually appealing display.
2. **Size:** Typically growing to a height of 1-1.5 meters, this grass forms dense clumps that add texture and movement to garden landscapes.
3. **Flowering:** Inconspicuous flowers appear in summer, but the primary ornamental value lies in the foliage.
Cultural Requirements:
1. **Climate:** Well-suited for New Zealand’s temperate climate, Pheasant’s Tail Grass thrives in areas with moderate rainfall and mild temperatures.
2. **Sunlight:** Prefers full sun to partial shade, though it can tolerate a range of light conditions.
3. **Soil:** Well-draining soil is essential. It adapts well to various soil types but thrives in fertile, loamy soil.
4. **Watering:** While established plants are drought-tolerant, consistent moisture is beneficial for optimal growth.
Landscaping and Garden Design:
1. **Focal Point:** Anemanthele lessoniana serves as an excellent focal point or backdrop in garden beds due to its height and graceful form.
2. **Borders and Edges:** Planting along borders and garden edges creates a soft and flowing effect, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
3.**Companion Plants:** Combining with other New Zealand native plants or contrasting with bold foliage plants can create visually appealing combinations.
Maintenance:
1. **Pruning:** Trim back the grass in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh, vibrant growth.
2. **Division:** Periodic division of clumps helps maintain plant vigor and prevents overcrowding.
3. **Pests and Diseases:** Generally resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance addition to the garden.
Seasonal Interest:
1. **Spring:** New growth emerges in shades of green, transitioning to bronze and gold.
2. **Summer:** Inconspicuous flowers appear, and foliage intensifies in colour.
3. **Autumn:** The grass takes on rich copper and red hues, providing a stunning display.
4. **Winter:** The evergreen nature of Anemanthele lessoniana ensures year-round interest.
Anemanthele lessoniana, with its graceful form, vibrant colour changes, and adaptability, is an excellent choice for New Zealand gardens. Whether used as a standalone specimen or integrated into garden designs, this ornamental grass enhances the visual appeal of outdoor spaces while requiring minimal maintenance.
The plants are in 5cm wide pots and average one year in age.
