Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

miniature toi toi plant

The miniature toi toi plant, also known as Chionochloa flavicans or Dwarf Toe Toe, is a graceful and compact New Zealand native grass loved for its soft arching foliage and elegant golden plume flowers. Perfect for smaller gardens, pots, and landscaping projects, this versatile grass adds a gentle, natural texture to any space. With its unique size and adaptability, the miniature toi toi plant is an excellent option for gardeners seeking the distinctive look of larger toetoe species in a more manageable form.

Chionochloa flavicans (Miniature Toetoe)

5 from 8 customers

Miniature Toetoe, Dwarf Toe Toe

Chionochloa flavicans, commonly known as Miniature ToeToe or Dwarf Toe Toe, is a highly popular NZ native grass. It has flowing, green foliage and white flower plumes in summer. It grows to 90 cm in height and width in full sun on a well-drained site. Chionochloa flavicans is commonly planted alongside ponds and streams, used as a groundcover on banks, included in borders, featured in rock gardens, or maintained in containers.

Chionochloa flavicans (Miniature ToeToe) plants with cascading cream-coloured flowers.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Grasses
  • Height:
    60 cm
  • Spread:
    70 cm
  • Flowering time:
    Summer
  • Tolerances:
    Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wet, Wind
  • Garden uses:
    Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas
  • Garden styles:
    Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native
Chionochloa conspicua (Snowgrass) plant in a garden with lush foliage and cream-white flowers.
Most Popular

Chionochloa conspicua (Hunangamoho)

Chionochloa conspicua, commonly known as Snowgrass or Snow Tussock, is a hardy, NZ native, ornamental grass. It grows as a large tussock with long...

Red Tussock (chionochloa rubra) growing in their natural environment.
Most Popular

Chionochloa rubra

Chionochloa rubra, commonly known as Red Tussock, is a striking New Zealand native grass admired for its tall, arching foliage in shades of bronze...

Chionochloa flavescens (Snow Tussock) growing in an alpine location.
Most Popular

Chionochloa flavescens (Snow Tussock)

Chionochloa flavescens, commonly known as Snow Tussock or Haumata, is grown for its foliage, golden tassels, and hardiness. It grows as a clump to...

Chionochloa rigida plant growing beside a path.
Most Popular

Chionochloa rigida (Snow Tussock)

Chionochloa rigida, commonly known as narrow-leaved snow tussock, is a hardy New Zealand native grass prized for its delicate, upright foliage and...

Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' grasses as a mass planting and featuring elegant, cream-coloured flower heads as plumes.
Most Popular

Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster'

Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' is a popular ornamental grass known for its upright, clump-forming habit and tall, feathery flower plumes. It grows to...

From$22.88
Ophiopogon japonicus Silver Mist grass in a garden.
Most Popular

Ophiopogon Silver Mist (Silver Mondo Grass)

Ophiopogon 'Silver Mist' is a dwarf silver Mondo Grass, and features fine, grass-like foliage that is variegated dark green and white. It typically...

From$8.78
Carex 'Frosted Curls' plants with elegant green foliage growing in a pot with other plants.
Most Popular

Carex Frosted Curls

Carex Frosted Curls is an ornamental grass with slender, hair-like, iridescent foliage that shimmers in light breezes. It typically grows to 30 cm...

From$13.43
Ophiopogon planiscapus (Mondo Grass) with lush green foliage growing as a ground cover.
Most Popular

Ophiopogon planiscapus

Ophiopogon planiscapus, commonly known as Dwarf Lilyturf, is a Mondo grass grown for its fine, dark green foliage and short stature. The foliage is...

From$8.78
Dactylis glomerata plant with a cat.
Most Popular

Dactylis glomerata (Cat Grass)

Dactylis glomerata, commonly known as Cat Grass or Catnip Grass, is a popular grass that is loved by cats. It features flowing, green foliage held as...

From$21.53
Chionochloa flavicans (Miniature Toetoe)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring Chionochloa or Grasses.

Search Chionochloa flavicans (Miniature Toetoe)

Why Choose Chionochloa flavicans (Dwarf Toe Toe)?

Chionochloa flavicans, commonly referred to as the miniature toi toi plant, showcases all the charm of New Zealand's iconic toetoe grasses but in a smaller, more garden-friendly package. This evergreen tussock features slender bright green leaves and drooping lime-gold plumes, usually appearing in late spring to summer. These flower heads sway gracefully in the wind, bringing movement and softness to your garden.

The compact size (generally reaching around 70cm) makes the miniature toi toi plant perfect for urban gardens, borders, patio pots, or as a contrast within native plantings. Its tolerance for a wide range of conditions—from coastal gardens to sunny rockeries—means it's as versatile as it is beautiful.

Planting and Care Tips

The miniature toi toi plant is easy to grow and maintain, making it suitable for both new and experienced gardeners. Here are some tips to help your Chionochloa flavicans thrive: - Location: Prefers full sun to light shade. - Soil: Grows best in well-draining soil but is adaptable to a range of conditions. - Watering: Drought tolerant once established, but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. - Maintenance: Minimal; simply remove old foliage in late winter to keep the plant looking fresh.

Use it in mixed borders, native gardens, or mass plantings for a stunning drift effect. The mini toetoe is also a popular choice for eco-sourced and restoration projects.

Discover Other New Zealand Natives and Grasses

Looking to enhance your garden with more architectural or ornamental grasses? Try pairing the miniature toi toi plant with other striking native species:

Bring Your Garden to Life with the Miniature Toi Toi Plant

Whether you’re designing a modern landscape, restoring native habitat, or simply seeking easy-care beauty, the miniature toi toi plant, Chionochloa flavicans, is a winning choice. Its soft movement, year-round presence, and adaptability make it a treasured find for any New Zealand garden.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Alchemilla mollis and Aesculus Briotii are popular for a reason, but it’s plants like Iris kaempferi, Hatiora salicornioides (Mistletoe Cactus), and Helleborus Pink Hybrid (Hellebore) that create a truly unique garden.
–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.8

445 Google reviews