Deschampsia cespitosa, commonly known as tufted hair grass or tussock grass, is a cool-season, perennial grass native to the northern regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. This clump-forming species is prized for its fine-textured, green to blue-green foliage and airy flower plumes. The slender, arching leaves grow in dense tufts or tussocks, reaching 12-36 inches tall. In late spring to early summer, Deschampsia cespitosa produces large, open panicles of delicate, purple-tinged flowers that flutter gracefully in the breeze, reaching up to 3 feet tall. As the blooms mature, they transition to a golden-brown color, providing multi-season interest. Adaptable to a wide range of soil types, Deschampsia cespitosa thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates both moist and dry conditions, making it a versatile ornamental grass for borders, meadows, rain gardens, and naturalized plantings. Its compact, clumping habit also allows it to be used effectively as edging, groundcover, or in containers. With its fine foliage, airy inflorescences, and ease of care, tufted hair grass is a valuable addition to both formal and informal landscape designs.
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Deciduous, Full Sun, Grasses, Illinois Native, Medium, Native to North America, Partial Shade, Partial Sun, Perennial
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