Anemanthele lessoniana – Vibrant New Zealand Native Grass for Dynamic Landscapes

What is the optimum Anemanthele lessoniana planting distance?

The optimum Anemanthele lessoniana planting distance for the plants to merge and become an effective ground cover is 50 cm apart. However, if you want them to grow as unique balls, they will need to be spaced at least 1 metre apart. The Anemanthele lessoniana plant spacing for having them merging to a limited degree is 75 cm apart.

What are the landscaping uses for Anemanthele lessoniana?

Anemanthele lessoniana is a popular choice in landscaping projects across NZ. It is commonly mass planted either as a ground cover or on a bank, included in borders or mixed plantings, or planted around outdoor living areas such as pools and barbecue areas. This hardy ornamental grass is also perfect for gardens around commercial buildings that are often somewhat neglected. Anemanthele lessoniana is favoured by landscape designers around the world. It is the gorgeous foliage and versatility of this plant that makes it a popular choice in landscaping.

What height and size does Anemanthele lessoniana grow to?

Anemanthele lessoniana, commonly known as Pheasant’s Tail Grass or New Zealand Wind Grass, typically grows to a height of around 60 to 100 cm and can spread up to 1 to 1.5 metres wide. It forms a loose, arching clump of fine, gracefully flowing foliage that moves easily in the wind, adding both colour and texture to the garden. The foliage colour intensifies in autumn with tones of copper, orange, and gold, making it a striking year-round feature in borders, mass plantings, or containers.

Anemanthele lessoniana for sale in NZ

The Plant Company has the best Anemanthele lessoniana for sale in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants and our logistics team pack them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. The seed is eco-sourced and then grown into amazing plants ready for their new homes. We all love producing this beautiful, ornamental grass and hearing our customers thank us for providing them with healthy and vibrant plants. Let us look after your Anemanthele needs and impress you with both our products and service!

Anemanthele lessoniana care guide

The most important part of Anemanthele lessoniana care is to make sure they have a well-drained soil that does not become waterlogged at any time. This, along with over-watering, are the main causes of plants to fail to perform or die. The next elements are to feed the plants in spring with a general fertiliser and keep an eye on watering so they do not dry out. Even though they are drought tolerant once established, they still benefit from being watered. Finally, remove any unsightly leaves as required. Disease issues really only become prevalent with wet conditions or with prolonged high humidity and a copper fungicide will take care of most issues. Mealy bugs are the only pest that can cause concern and an insecticide can be used if levels become too great.

Is Anemanthele lessoniana An Invasive Grass?

Anemanthele lessoniana is a beautiful ornamental grass native to New Zealand. While it's not considered invasive in NZ, it can become invasive in other parts of the world, particularly in regions with Mediterranean climates like California and the Pacific Northwest. Wind easily carries its seeds, allowing it to spread quickly to new areas and it can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, making it difficult to control its spread.

Why is Anemanthele lessoniana called Pheasant's Tail grass?

Anemanthele lessoniana is called Pheasant's Tail grass because its arching, narrow leaves often turn bronze, orange, and reddish hues, particularly in the cooler months, resembling the colours and patterns seen in the tail feathers of some pheasant species. The way the leaves gracefully arch and flow in the wind can also contribute to this visual similarity, creating a feathery or plume-like effect.

Can Anemanthele lessoniana grow in shade?

Anemanthele lessoniana can grow in partial shade but not in full shade. In full sun Anemanthele lessoniana typically shows its most vibrant colours, developing rich bronze, orange, and reddish tones. It also tends grow more compactly. In partial shade it will still grow well, but the foliage may tend to be more green and less intensely coloured. The plant might also have a slightly more open or less dense appearance as the leaves reach for more light. Partial shade is generally defined as receiving direct sunlight for only 2-3 hours per day or dappled light throughout the day (like under a deciduous tree). Heavy shade is generally not recommended as the plants become "leggy" and untidy as they stretch for light. Its growth and overall performance will be poor, and the foliage will remain mostly green.