Species Lemmon's Needlegrass

Lemmon's Needlegrass

Achnatherum lemmonii

Also Known As - Lemmon's Stipa
Lemmon's Needlegrass (Achnatherum lemmonii) is a stunning perennial grass native to the western United States and Canada. It grows 1-4 feet in height with densely clumped, upright foliage. Its flower heads, carried on arching stems, are finger-like plumes of bright golden color and light fragrance. It is drought tolerant, preferring full sun to prosper. With invasive tendencies, this showy grass will spread about an area with a strong root system but can be easily managed. Its fine texture and breathtaking sweeping display of yellow-gold makes Lemmon's Needlegrass a most attractive choice for a low-maintenance border, naturalization, or ornamental grass.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers In Summer

Sun:

full sun,part sun/part shade

Soil:

Clay, Sand

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Lemmon's Needlegrass should be watered about once or twice a week during growing season. During the hottest summer months, you may need to water the plants more often. During the cooler months, if the soil feels dry an inch below the surface, it's time to water. Be sure not to over water the plants, as too much water can quickly drown them. When watering, water the soil around the base of the plant and avoid getting the foliage wet. This will help prevent the growth of fungal diseases.

sunlight

Lemmon's Needlegrass grows best in sunny locations with 8 to 10 hours of sunlight daily. During the summer months, the plant should receive direct sunlight for the majority of the day so it can flourish. During the winter months, however, the plant should receive indirect sunlight as direct sunlight can be too strong. It should be noted that Lemmon's Needlegrass is an adaptable species and may also do well in partial shade.

pruning

Lemmon’s Needlegrass is best pruned in late winter and early spring before new growth begins. This will result in a denser, more compact landscape-friendly form. Dead tips and flower stalks should be removed, and stems can be selectively thinned. Avoid pruning severely, as this will reduce or eliminate flowering. For best results, prune no more than 1-third of the tallest stems in late winter.

Season

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

Lemmon's Needlegrass typically starts flowering in April.