Stipa gigantea (golden oats) is a member of the Poaceae family. This grasse exhibits a tufted growth habit and is characterized by its evergreen foliage. It has a hardiness rating of hardy – average winter (-10 to -5ºc) and is hardy through most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude and central / northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens. Plants in pots are more vulnerable.
When fully mature, Stipa gigantea can reach an ultimate height of 1.5–2.5 metres and a spread of 0.5–1 metres. For optimal growth, it prefers south–facing or west–facing or east–facing aspect and sheltered positions. It thrives best in chalk or loam or sand soil types and should be placed in full sun.
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Flower
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Foliage
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Fruit
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Stem
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