New Zealand Wind Grass (Anemanthele lessoniana) Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, ph.D. - Updated 31st Jan 2024

Anemanthele lessoniana (Syn. Stipa arundinacea) is a commonly grown ornamental garden grass, and is the only member of its genus. It is a member of the ten thousand strong true grass family Poaceae.

This plant has graceful, arching evergreen foliage, which change colors with the seasons. They are a great pant to grow for adding year-round interest to your garden.

This plant is native to New Zealand and is commonly referred to as New Zealand wind grass, or sometimes as 'Bent', 'Pheasant's tail' or 'Gossamer' grass.

New Zealand Wind Grass (both pictures by Megan Hansen).

Depending on the zone where it is grown, New Zealand wind grass is either semi-evergreen (zone 8) or evergreen (zone 9 or 10). It is fast growing and clump forming.

Its bushy nature and attractive colors make Anemanthele lessoniana an attractive focus plant that can be used in a large array of gardens such as cottage, gravel, city, hilly, informal, prairie, and courtyards.

It is very versatile and can be used in flower beds and borders, as an edging plant, or even in large containers.

Anemanthele lessoniana Description

Anemanthele lessoniana is usually a semi-evergreen perennial grass that reaches a height of 90 cm (36 inches), it grows as a clump and typically has a spread of around 90 to 140 cm (36–55 inches).

Plants typically takes two to three years to reach its full height. The leaves are arching, slender, and olive-green in color; these become copper-red, or orange-gold in color in the summer and autumn.

They remain this lovely color through the winter, making them a welcome sight in the garden during the winter. Plants carry bowing sprays of flowers of red and brown in the summer.

Photograph of Anemanthele lessoniana.

Anemanthele lessoniana Growing Guide

• They will grow well in zones 8 to 10.
• Grow Anemanthele lessoniana in full sunlight or partial shade.
• Space plants about 50 cm (20 inches) apart or separately.
• The soil should be well drained, have a light to medium constitution, and fairly fertile. It can grow in soils that are sandy, chalky, clay, or loam.
•  It can tolerate sheltered and exposed areas, and looks especially attractive when its leaves shiver in the wind.
• Sow seeds lightly covered under a cold frame in the spring. Alternatively sow in slightly moist compost in a seed tray, and cover with vermiculite; next place in a clear plastic bag and germinate in the light at 20 to 25°C (70–77°F) for four to twelve weeks. When seedlings emerge transplant into pots and keep under a cold frame; transplant them to their final location once all chance of frost has passed.
• Further plants can be propagated by division in the middle of spring and the start of summer.
• Anemanthele lessoniana require little maintenance and is not usually susceptible to pests and diseases. Supply water during prolonged dry spells. Tidy up the plant by removing dead and winter damaged leaves by combing with your hands at the start of spring.

Common Questions

How many members does the Anemanthele genus have?

The Anemanthele genus is monotypic, containing only one species: Anemanthele lessoniana.

Do members of Anemanthele make a good garden or landscaping plant?

It is a popular ornamental grass used in borders and mass plantings.

What is the perfect location to grow Anemanthele?

Grow in a location that has full sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil. It can tolerate wind and some drought.

Is Anemanthele invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Anemanthele lessoniana is not considered invasive in the USA.

How do I remove Anemanthele from my garden?

Removal can be done by digging up the plant. Make sure to remove all roots to prevent any possible regrowth.

Summary

The Anemanthele genus, also known as Pheasant's Tail Grass, consists of ornamental grasses appreciated for their graceful and vibrant foliage. Native to New Zealand, Anemanthele plants are valued for their arching blades that change color throughout the seasons. This stunning foliage helps to create a dynamic display in the garden, with blades transitioning from green through to bronze or red.

They are relatively easy to grow and care for as they are adaptable to most soil types. These grasses can be propagated through division or through planting seeds. Use them in borders, containers, or as accent plants. They are also great for adding movement and texture to gardens, and help to provide year-round interest.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on Anemanthele lessoniana. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Miscanthus and /Stipa plants.