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Giant Feather Grass

Stipa gigantea

Poaceae · grass sedge · introduced

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Phenology
GDD Thresholds
Puget Sound

Giant feather grass, also called giant needle grass or golden oats, is a tall, tufted bunchgrass native to Spain and Portugal. Growing 3-4 feet tall (to 6 feet with flower spikes), it produces narrow, gray-green leaves and ethereal, feathery seed heads that shimmer gold in light.

Giant feather grass is extremely drought-tolerant once established and thrives in full sun with well-drained, sandy or rocky soil. Hardy to zones 6-9, it is slow-growing and long-lived. The spectacular seed heads persist through fall and winter, providing extended ornamental interest. The plant is excellent for focal points in gardens.

Quick Facts

Height
6-8 ft
Spread
2-3 ft
Growth Rate
Medium
Light
Full Sun
Soil
Moist, Very Dry, Well Drained
Hardiness
Zone Zones 5a–8b
Bloom Time
spring, summer, winter
Origin
Iberian Peninsula, Morocco