Eragrostis spectabilis
purple love grass
This captivating ornamental grass creates a stunning visual display with its compact, disorganised clumps of flat, narrow leaves reaching up to 25cm (10in) in length. Eragrostis spectabilis truly shines in summer when airy clouds of small, red-purple flowers emerge, creating an ethereal effect that transitions to soft brown hues as autumn approaches. Thriving in full sun and adaptable to poor soils, this clump-forming deciduous grass is an excellent low-maintenance choice for cottage gardens, city courtyards, and flower borders. Its versatility extends to cut flower arrangements, adding texture and movement. While moderately hardy in most regions, it may benefit from winter protection in colder areas and requires a warm summer to flower profusely. Ideal for gardeners seeking a drought-tolerant (once established), visually interesting plant, it offers a perfect blend of delicate beauty and robust performance, particularly in well-draining, moderately fertile to poor soils.
How to care for Eragrostis spectabilis:
Eragrostis thrives best in full sun with well-drained ground conditions, and can tolerate poorer soils. Regular watering during dry spells will help maintain its health, but be cautious of overwatering. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds, ensuring a vibrant display throughout the growing season. Cut back old stems to ground level in early spring, ideally between late February and the end of March, before new growth begins; this helps rejuvenate the plant and encourages fresh foliage for the upcoming season.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.7m
Eventual spread:
0.7m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
-
This grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
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