Deschampsia cespitosa

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Deschampsia Cespitosa 7 Deschampsia Cespitosa 5 Deschampsia Cespitosa 1 Deschampia Cespitosa Deschampsia Cespitosa 8
Deschampsia Cespitosa 7 Deschampsia Cespitosa 5 Deschampsia Cespitosa 1 Deschampia Cespitosa Deschampsia Cespitosa 8

Deschampsia cespitosa

Common Name: Tufted Hairgrass

Tufted Hairgrass is a cool-season, clump-forming grass that grows 1 to 4 feet tall, producing airy, golden seed heads from late spring to summer. It is native to Minnesota’s meadows, wetlands, and rocky shorelines, tolerating a variety of soil conditions but preferring sandy soils. This grass is an excellent choice for erosion control, rain gardens, and naturalized landscapes, providing food and habitat for birds and other wildlife. Its ornamental seed heads add texture to prairie plantings and shade gardens.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant
Type Graminoid
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 20
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 12
Dominance Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.