Stipa ichu
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Common NamePeruvian Feather Grass
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CA NativeNon-native
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Plant TypeGrass or grass-like plant
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Size2' - 3' x 2' - 3'
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Flower ColorGolden
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Bloom Time
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Spring
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LeavesThin Needle-Like - Upright
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EvergreenEvergreen
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Deer ResistantRarely Damaged
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Wildlife ValueN / A
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Growth RateFast
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HardinessHardy
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Adverse Growth FactorsNone
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Special Features
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Low Maintenance
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Showy Flowers
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Specimen
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Water Use
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Drought Tolerant
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Soil pH6.5-7.5 (neutral)
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Exposure
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Full Sun
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Soil TypeNot Particular
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DrainageGood Drainage
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Description and Cultural Plant Tips
This stiff fine textured needle-like bunch grass reaches 2' - 3' wide and tall. Lime green can fade to beige in winter. Showy feather-like flowers appear in spring with showy silken awns, very featherlike. Flowers mature to a golden color and explode by mid-summer. Full sun or light shade, quite heat resistant and is an extremely durable hot weather plant.
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Master Gardener Comments
Goes well with other drought tolerant Mediterranean plants, succulents, other stipas – good in masses or as accent plant. Can handle clay soil and is good for coastal conditions.
Propigate by seed. Will naturalize unfavorable conditions but not invasive.
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VarietalsN / A