Species fiber optic grass

fiber optic grass

Isolepis cernua

Fiber optic grass (Isolepis cernua) is an ornamental plant with narrow, thread-like leaflets that sway like blades of grass in the wind. The foliage forms a compact mound in a range of colors from chartreuse to white. Short flowering stems produce tiny, yellowish, cup-like blooms in summer months. This hardy grass adapts to a variety of soil types and lighting conditions, making it suitable for beds, borders, and rock gardens. It's drought tolerant, frost resistant, and low maintenance, making it easy to care for in most climates. This unique species adds a gentle texture to gardens with its soft, emerald-green blades.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Hardiness Zone:

5

Flowers:

Showy, White, Violet, Blue, Yellow, (Some bicolored cvs.) Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Fruits:

Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Growth Rate:

High

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Dutch iris should be watered once per week in adequate amounts, depending on the season. In warmer months, it should be watered more frequently and more deeply. However, during cooler and wetter months less water is needed. In general, wait until the top inch of soil is dry before thoroughly soaking the soil. You should also always check if they are showing signs of distress, such as wilting or browning. If this is the case, water your Dutch iris immediately, making sure to avoid soggy soil.

sunlight

Dutch iris require full sunlight for optimal growth. The plant should be in full sun for at least 6 hours a day in order to bloom. If grown in shaded areas, the flowers may not open fully. For flowering plants, Dutch iris should receive a minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight each day. During the hottest hours of the day, some partial shade should be provided to protect the plants from excessive heat. Additionally, the soil should be kept moist but not soggy and fertilized regularly for best blooms and overall health.

pruning

Dutch iris should be pruned in spring, after they have finished flowering and their foliage has started to die back. Pruning should include cutting back all the spent blooms, as well as removing any dead or damaged foliage or stems. Aim to cut the plant down to around 25cm in height, leaving only the strongest, healthiest stems in place. This will encourage strong and healthy growth in the following season, as well as ensuring your dutch iris blooms for as long as possible.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Starts Flowering

Starts Flowering

Harvest Fruit

Hardiness Map

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.