Poa cita (Silver Tussock)

Poa cita (Silver Tussock) Details

Poa cita, commonly known as Silver Tussock, is a clump forming NZ native grass with fine, green foliage that wafts gracefully in the breeze. Feathery flower heads are borne above the foliage in summer and provide additional interest. It typically grows to 60 cm tall and 50 cm wide, preferring a full sun or partial shade position on a well-drained site. Silver Tussock will tolerate dry periods, wind, and coastal conditions. It is commonly used for planting around the base of trees and the like where other plants are unlikely to establish. Poa cita is also often included in borders, rock gardens, mass planted on a bank, or planted to help minimise erosion. Landscape designers in NZ often use Silver Tussock in alpine themed gardens or in modern gardens for their rounded, architectural form.

What are the best growing conditions for Poa cita?

The best growing conditions for Poa cita, also known as Silver Tussock, are primarily a free draining soil, even if it has low fertility. On clay or poorly drained soils the plants will struggle. However, on fertile, sandy soils they will thrive and become large plants. Silver Tussock does prefer a full sun position but can tolerate light shade such as might occur when planted beneath a deciduous tree. Once they are growing and established, the plants are drought tolerant. Therefore, you only need to water them during the initial establishment or during dry periods if you want them to remain green. When they incur water stress the foliage develops fawn tones. Poa cita is hardy to heavy frost and temperatures down to -10°C. It is also tolerant of wind and coastal conditions. All this considered, the options for where to grow Silver Tussock are wide open!