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gossamer grass nz

Gossamer grass NZ, better known as Anemanthele lessoniana or Pheasant's Tail Grass, is one of New Zealand's most beloved ornamental grasses. Swaying softly in the breeze, the fine arching foliage transforms gardens with a shimmering tapestry of copper, orange, gold, and green tones. Hardy, low-maintenance, and evergreen, gossamer grass NZ is an outstanding choice for those seeking movement, colour, and texture in their landscape—whether you have a native garden, coastal retreat, or modern city plot. This versatile grass offers both beauty and resilience, thriving in a wide range of New Zealand conditions.

Anemanthele lessoniana (Pheasant's Tail Grass)

5 from 3 customers

Pheasant's Tail Grass, Stipa arundinacea, Bent Grass, New Zealand Wind Grass, Gossamer Grass

Anemanthele lessoniana, also known as Pheasant's Tail Grass or New Zealand Wind Grass, is a graceful, clump-forming ornamental grass native to New Zealand. It features slender, arching foliage that emerges green and transforms into a striking blend of copper, orange, and gold hues, particularly in autumn and winter. This semi-evergreen grass produces airy, reddish-brown flower panicles in late summer, adding movement and texture to garden spaces.

Anemanthele lessoniana grass with colourful, orange and green foliage growing in a pot.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Grasses
  • Height:
    1.00 m
  • Spread:
    1.50 m
  • Flowering time:
    Summer
  • Tolerances:
    Coastal, Hardy, Wind
  • Garden uses:
    Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Ponds, Pool areas
  • Garden styles:
    Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native
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Anemanthele lessoniana (Pheasant's Tail Grass)

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Why Grow Gossamer Grass NZ (Anemanthele lessoniana)

Anemanthele lessoniana brings dynamic colour to any garden year-round. Its wispy blades change with the seasons, intensifying in colour with colder weather. In spring and summer, delicate feathery flower heads hover above the foliage, adding a light, airy effect that gives rise to its common name, gossamer grass NZ. This grass can be mass planted for sweeping effect, nestled among perennials, or used as a softly arching feature in pots and borders. Drought-tolerant once established, it suits exposed, windy, and coastal positions, coping well with a range of soils.

How to Plant and Care for Gossamer Grass NZ

Plant gossamer grass NZ in full sun to partial shade for best colour. It prefers free-draining soil but can adapt to most conditions, making it forgiving even for beginner gardeners. When planting, space clumps about 60cm apart to allow the foliage to develop its graceful form. Water regularly until established, then enjoy its natural resilience in dry periods. In late winter or early spring, you can tidy up old foliage with a light comb-through or a quick snip of any tired blades.

Landscaping with Gossamer Grass NZ

Anemanthele lessoniana blends beautifully with native and exotic planting schemes. Pair it with fellow native grasses like Simplicia laxa or the striking variegated Carex Spark Plug for year-round texture. For a contrast in form and foliage, add the wetland sedge Typha orientalis (Raupō), or soften hard edges with smaller groundcovers such as Armeria 'Armazing Little Ruby' (Thrift) and Armeria 'Pink Petite' (Thrift). Mass-planted along pathways or as a border, gossamer grass NZ creates a gentle, flowing backdrop that moves elegantly in the wind.

Benefits of Choosing Gossamer Grass NZ

Gossamer grass NZ is prized for its sustainability. It provides habitat and food for beneficial insects, is non-invasive, and easily maintained with very little input. As a non-spreading perennial grass, it stays where you plant it, reducing the risk of garden aggression. For those seeking a climate-resilient, low-water landscape, Anemanthele lessoniana is a top recommendation.

Embrace the year-round display and effortless care of gossamer grass NZ in your garden. Integrate it with other natives or combine with companion grasses and groundcovers from our nursery range to create a truly stunning, easy-care New Zealand space.


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