silver tussock grass

What Is Silver Tussock Grass (Poa cita)?

Poa cita is a perennial tussock grass, forming dense mounds of arching, silvery-green foliage that sway gracefully in the wind. This attractive grass grows up to 70 cm tall and is renowned for its drought tolerance and adaptability to harsh sites. Silver tussock grass is native to open hills, coastal cliffs, and dry valleys across both the North and South Islands. It thrives in poor soils and copes well with wind, salt, and frost, making it a resilient choice for New Zealand gardens.

How to Grow Silver Tussock Grass

Growing silver tussock grass is delightfully straightforward. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil, as Poa cita dislikes wet feet. This grass is naturally low-maintenance, requiring little more than an annual tidy-up to remove old foliage and spent flower stems. Water occasionally during establishment, but once settled, silver tussock grass needs minimal input—a boon for busy gardeners.

Landscaping Uses for Silver Tussock Grass

Silver tussock grass is prized for its soft, flowing habit and subtle colour, creating a restful palette in native plantings, rock gardens, and coastal landscapes. It’s ideal for:

• Filling slopes and banks for erosion control
• Mass planting along driveways and pathways
• Mixing with other native grasses and low shrubs for naturalistic displays
• Softening the edges of hard landscaping, such as pavers and retaining walls

For textural contrast, try pairing silver tussock grass with other ornamental and native grasses such as Poa anceps (Broad-leaved Poa), Poa billardierei (Hinarepe), or Poa colensoi. To add height and an architectural accent, include statement clumps of Cyperus papyrus (Umbrella Papyrus) or striking foliage plants like Miscanthus 'Morning Light'.

Best Companion Plants

Pairing silver tussock grass with other tough, resilient species amplifies its effect and supports biodiversity. For a lush, layered look, consider weaving in Lomandra Evergreen Baby or the feathery Trisetum antarcticum. For wetter areas or dramatic water features, Cyperus King Tut makes an exciting contrast in both texture and form.

Why Choose Silver Tussock Grass for Your Garden?

Silver tussock grass stands out for its beauty, resilience, and versatility. Its silky, silver-green leaves sparkle year-round, providing movement and light to any planting scheme. Choose it for areas where you want a low-cost, low-fuss native grass that handles the rigours of New Zealand’s climate while supporting local wildlife and improving soil stability.

Explore our range of tough native and exotic grasses to find the perfect companions for your silver tussock grass project. We’re here to help you create lasting, beautiful gardens with character and heart.