Stipa barbata, 'Silver Feather'

Germination

Sow indoors. Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost, sow finely. Just cover seeds with a sieved layer of soil. Ideal temp. 21-22°C. Germination takes 7-10 days. Germination can be erratic and take considerably longer. If germination does not occur cold stratify. Move seeds to -3-+4°C for 2-4 weeks then return to warmth. Once germination occurs move to a cooler position. Transplant seedlings once large enough to handle to 1L pot containing gritty compost. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed.

Growing

Prefers fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Requires little attention once established. Feed in spring if desired. Slow growing.

Cultivation

The flower stems develop attractive spiral twists, this twist helps to drive the seed into the soil, having said that this does not germinate freely.