This grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: any moist but well-drained, preferably acid to neutral soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May to September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  From amongst the compact tussocks of foliage, upright, willowy stems emerge in late summer and autumn carrying violet flowerspikes that sway gently in the breeze. This deciduous grass also has good autumn colour.
  
  
• Garden care: Cut back in late winter before the new foliage appears.