Mexican Feather/Thread Grass

Mexican Feather Grass, also known as Nassella tenuissima or Stipa tenuissima, is a delicate and graceful ornamental grass, native to the southwestern United States, Mexico, and South America. It is highly appreciated in landscaping for its fine-textured foliage and elegant, swaying movement.

One of the most striking features of Mexican Feather Grass is its fine, hair-like foliage, which is green in color and turns golden as it matures. The grass produces feathery, tan to golden seed heads in late spring to summer, which add a soft, airy quality to the plant. These seed heads persist into fall, providing extended visual interest.

Mexican Feather Grass is known for its flowing, fountain-like growth habit, which creates a sense of movement and lightness in the landscape. The grass's fine texture contrasts beautifully with broader-leaved plants, making it an excellent choice for mixed borders, rock gardens, and as a ground cover.

This grass thrives in well-drained soil and is highly drought-tolerant once established, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and low-water landscapes. It prefers a sunny location and can tolerate a range of soil types, including poor and sandy soils.

While Mexican Feather Grass is a popular and attractive plant, it is important to note that it can self-seed prolifically and may become invasive in some areas. Gardeners should check local regulations and consider the ecological impact before planting.

Overall, Mexican Feather Grass is valued for its delicate beauty, ease of care, and adaptability to various garden settings. Its ability to add texture, movement, and a natural, wispy appearance to landscapes makes it a favored choice among gardeners and landscape designers.