Mexican Feather Grass Plant Care
Stipa tenuissima Trin.
Nassella tenuissima is a species of grass known by the common names Mexican feathergrass, finestem needlegrass, fineleaved nassella, and Argentine needle-grass. It is native to the south-western United States, northern Mexico and Argentina.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–85°F
40–70%
What Is the Mexican Feather Grass?
Mexican Feather Grass (Stipa tenuissima) belongs to the Poaceae family within the Stipa genus. Mexican Feather Grass is native to the south-western United States, northern Mexico and Argentina. Mexican Feather Grass is also known as Lemongrass.
Mexican Feather Grass displays a clump-forming grass growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Mexican Feather Grass produces feathery panicles in shades of gold, silver, or purple.
Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Mexican Feather Grass?
Stipa tenuissima requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Mexican Feather Grass Need?
Mexican Feather Grass thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 2000–5000 lux. Avoid placing Mexican Feather Grass in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
2000–5000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Mexican Feather Grass Prefer?
Stipa tenuissima grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 85°F. Mexican Feather Grass prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–85°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Mexican Feather Grass?
Well-draining sandy soil with good aeration. Good drainage is essential for Mexican Feather Grass to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Mexican Feather Grass?
Divide and repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Mexican Feather Grass?
Mexican Feather Grass can be propagated through division, seed sowing.
Fertilizing
Every 8 months
During the growing season
Is the Mexican Feather Grass Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Mexican Feather Grass?
Mexican Feather Grass is susceptible to aphids, grasshoppers, cutworms. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Mexican Feather Grass Need?
Mexican Feather Grass grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to the south-western United States, northern Mexico and Argentina, Mexican Feather Grass is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Mexican Feather Grass as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Mexican Feather Grass is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Stipa genus — compare its care with other Stipa species on PlantoScan.
Mexican Feather Grass tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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