Mediterranean Hairgrass (Rostraria cristata)

Mediterranean Hairgrass

Rostraria cristata

Fine, wispy foliage creates soft, billowing ground cover. Annual grass; common name: Mediterranean Hairgrass.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, dry sunny conditions; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates
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Watering Drought-tolerant; water only when top 2 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperate to Mediterranean climates; tolerates light frost down to 5°C; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 0°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow linear bright green blades up to 15 cm long, soft, fine texture
  • Flower: Dense spiky panicles, pale green to straw-colored, held above foliage
  • Stem: Slender upright stems forming compact tufted clumps
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Care Guide

Watering

Water occasionally during prolonged dry spells to maintain foliage color

Fertilization

Light diluted balanced feed once every 4 weeks. Use only diluted, low-nitrogen feed to prevent excessive foliage growth

Composted coffee grounds:Mix fully composted grounds into topsoil at planting; avoid raw grounds to prevent pH imbalance and pest attraction
Pruning
  • Trim spent flower heads to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
  • Remove dead, brown foliage in late summer to tidy clumps
  • Avoid heavy pruning; maintain the natural tufted growth form
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover for rock gardens, borders, and container displays; erosion control on dry slopes