Achnatherum calamagrostis (syn. Stipa calamogrostis) is a species of flowering plant in the grass family Poaceae, known by the common names spear grass, needle grass, and silver spike grass. It is an ornamental grass native to the clearings in the mountains of central and southern Europe, which grows in mounds of blue-green leaves and long, silvery plumes. Under the synonym Stipa calamagrostis, this plant, and the cultivars 'Allgäu' and 'Lemperg' have won the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
Silber rauhgras is well resistant to diseases and generally not affected by them. When it comes to care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. Planted outdoors, it needs only minimal watering, and larger specimens usually do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be trimmed after they finish blooming. Silber rauhgrast is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not demand much experience in plant care.
How to keep Achnatherum Calamagrostis.
Light
Silber rauhgras ist eine sonnenliebende, mehrjährige krautige Pflanze, die aus offenen Lebensräumen stammt und häufig in Wiesen und Grasflächen vorkommt. Die Pflanze bevorzugt volle Sonne, verträgt jedoch auch halbschattige Bedingungen.
Water
Silber rauhgras thrives in moist environments and requires consistent watering twice a week to stay healthy. It prefers humidity and balances its water needs well. As an outdoor plant, silber rauhgras is popular for container gardening, where watering can be easily controlled, making it ideal for patios.
Temperature
Silber rauhgras can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but its distribution may still be restricted by specific combinations of moisture and heat. It performs best in warm summer conditions with sufficient rainfall or watering. Long periods of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high temperatures can increase the chance of Silber rauhgras dying. In winter, protecting it from cold can increase its survival rate.
Fertilizer
Silber rauhgras needs extra nutrients to encourage healthy new growth. In spring, spreading some compost around the base of the plant is an effective way to supply the nutrition it requires. Fertilizing supports vigorous growth and helps the plant resist diseases and pests.
Pruning
Silber rauhgras benefits from early spring pruning. Cut the old growth down to ground level to promote vigorous new growth and maintain the plant's shape. Regularly remove dead stems to improve air circulation and prevent disease. Ensure you use clean tools to maintain the plant’s health and appearance throughout the growing season.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Grass
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Achnatherum
- Family
- Poaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-9
- Mature Height
- 91 cm
- Mature Spread
- 91 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Flower Color
- Green, Brown, Gray, Silver
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall
Other names.
