Stipa pennata, commonly known as European feather grass, is a perennial grass native to the temperate grasslands and steppes of Eurasia, extending from France to Mongolia. It typically grows to a height of 24-35 inches (60-90 cm), featuring distinctive feathery flowering spikes that are silvery-gray and become more pronounced in the summer months. The plant’s overall appearance is characterized by its fine-textured foliage and airy flower panicles that sway gracefully in the breeze, adding movement and texture to garden settings.

European feather grass is valued for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to add visual interest to the landscape. It is particularly well-suited for use in rock gardens, as an accent in perennial borders, or in mass plantings to create a naturalistic effect. This grass prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it a good choice for xeriscaping and gardens with dry conditions. While generally disease-free, it can self-seed prolifically, which may be considered undesirable in some gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0