Cortaderia richardii (Endl.) Zotov
toe toe
An evergreen grass forming a dense clump of narrow, arching, leathery leaves, and long-lasting plume-like silvery-white inflorescences to 60cm long
Other common names
plumed tussock
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Grey Silver | Green | ||
| Autumn | Grey Silver | Green | ||
| Winter | Grey Silver | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Cortaderia are robust evergreen grasses forming large, compact tufts of narrowly linear, rough-edged leaves, with erect stems bearing dense silvery or pink-tinged flower panicles which are excellent for drying
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- New Zealand
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed at 13-18°C (55-64°F) in spring or propagate by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Prairie planting
- Architectural
- Coastal
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut and comb out the previous year's stems and foliage in late winter or early spring taking care to avoid the sharp leaf margins
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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