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poa native grass

Poa cita—most commonly known as Silver Tussock—is one of New Zealand’s most valued poa native grass species. Noted for its graceful, silver-green foliage and fine, arching leaves, Poa cita makes a standout addition to any landscape, from native restoration projects to modern home gardens. If you’re seeking a resilient, attractive option to bring texture and movement to your outdoor spaces, Silver Tussock is a superb choice. Its adaptability and low maintenance requirements make it a favourite among both professional landscapers and passionate gardeners alike.

Poa cita

Poa cita, commonly known as Silver Tussock, is a clump-forming NZ native grass with delicate, green foliage that wafts gracefully in the breeze. It typically grows to 60 cm in height and 50 cm in width, preferring a full sun or partial shade position on a well-drained site. Poa cita is also often included in borders, rock gardens, mass-planted on a bank, or planted to help minimize erosion. Landscape designers in NZ frequently use Silver Tussock in alpine-themed gardens or modern gardens for their rounded, architectural form.

Poa cita grass plants on a plateau overlooing the sea.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Grasses
  • Height:
    60 cm
  • Spread:
    50 cm
  • Flowering time:
    Summer
  • Tolerances:
    Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
  • Garden uses:
    Borders, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas
  • Garden styles:
    Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native
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Poa cita

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What Makes Poa Cita (Silver Tussock) Unique?

Among New Zealand’s diverse poa native grass varieties, Poa cita stands out for its soft, silvery tone that shimmers in the light. It forms lush, tidy clumps that sway gently in the wind, adding dynamic beauty to mixed plantings or mass displays. Native to dry hillsides and coastal locations, Poa cita is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established and thrives in a range of soils, from sandy to clay.

This versatile grass is also highly wind tolerant and can withstand salt exposure, making it perfect for coastal gardens. Whether planted on hillsides, used as a border, or for erosion control, Silver Tussock lends a distinctly New Zealand character to almost any setting.

Uses and Benefits of Poa Native Grass

Silver Tussock isn’t just a visual highlight; it offers genuine ecological and practical benefits. Poa cita forms dense root systems, making it an excellent option for soil stabilisation and erosion control. Its foliage provides valuable shelter for native wildlife, including lizards and insects, supporting local biodiversity.

As a poa native grass, Silver Tussock can be featured in:

For those wanting more variety in their planting palette, explore other poa native grass options like Poa anceps (Broad-leaved Poa), known for its broad leaves and robust growth, or Poa billardierei (Hinarepe), perfect for sandy coastal environments. Poa colensoi offers a compact alternative, ideal for smaller spaces.

Planting and Care Tips for Silver Tussock

Caring for Poa cita is refreshingly straightforward. Plant in full sun or partial shade for the best silver colouring. It copes well with most well-drained soils and requires little fertiliser. Trim back old foliage every few years to keep plants fresh and tidy. Drought and wind resistance ensure Silver Tussock performs even in demanding conditions, making it a reliable poa native grass for low-input landscapes. Water during establishment, then enjoy a highly sustainable, self-sufficient plant.

Pairing with Complementary Native Grasses

For greater visual interest and ecological benefit, consider pairing Silver Tussock with other NZ native grasses and groundcovers. Hierochloe redolens (Kāretu) brings fragrant foliage and architectural lines, while Ficinia spiralis (Pingao) is ideal for sandy spots and native restoration schemes. Add easy-care texture with Lomandra Katrinus Deluxe, Lomandra White Sands, or contrast the silver tones with Carex comans Red.

Enhance Your Garden with Poa Native Grass

Whether rejuvenating larger landscapes or adding a unique native touch to home gardens, Poa cita (Silver Tussock) is a classic poa native grass that thrives across New Zealand. Its beauty, resilience, and utility make it an excellent investment for any eco-friendly or contemporary design. Explore our full range of native grasses to find the perfect companions for your sustainable garden.


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