Growing Nassella

Latin Name Pronunciation:  nas-sel' lah

The 80-100 species from the genus Nassella are cool-season perennial Grasses native to dry lands in North and South America. They grow actively in cool weather, bloom in spring or early summer, and go dormant or semi-dormant in summer’s heat. Nassellas thrive in full sun and are particularly tolerant of heat and poor, dry soils, making them an excellent choice for xeriscaping and low-maintenance water-wise gardens as long as the soil is very well-drained.

Growing Nassella

Plant the crown right at soil level. Spacing is indicated on the plant tag. May self-sow a bit in warm areas.

Light: Full Sun. Nassella tenuissima can adapt to very light shade.

Watering: Very low; this is an exceptionally drought-tolerant plant.

Fertilizer: Do not fertilize. Mulch with gravel, dried Grass, very light Pine bark mulch, or not at all. Wood mulch holds too much moisture and may smother.

Soil: Thrives in poor, well-drained soil; cannot tolerate wet or heavy soil. Grows in moderate garden soil but may not overwinter in the colder parts of its range, without superb drainage.

Pests/Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-free.

Dividing/Transplanting:  Divide if needed, or transplant, in late winter/early spring, before new growth begins.

End-of-Season Care:  As long as your Nassella still stands tall and waves in the wind, let it remain standing for the winter. Cut down to the base in late winter/early spring (or if it looks messy). Where plants remain evergreen, let it grow without cutting back.