Spodiopogon sibiricus
frost grass
A clump-forming, ornamental perennial grass to around 1.5m, with strap-shaped, arching blue-green foliage with a white centre, turning to burgundy-red in the autumn. Upright stems of airy purple to pale brown flowers appear from July through to September
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Blue Green White | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple Brown | Blue Green White | ||
| Autumn | Purple Brown | Red | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming, Columnar upright
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Siberia, China, Japan
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, moist but well drained soil in a sunny position. Will tolerate some shade, but this may reduce the intensity of autumn colour. Prefers cooler conditions and will cope in coastal regions as long as soil is kept moist. Do not allow soil to dry out. See ornamental grasses cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Sow seed in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in spring or propagate clumps by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Coastal
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back in late winter or early spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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