Nassella ichu is a striking ornamental grass prized for its fine textured arching foliage and airy golden flower plumes that sway gracefully in the breeze. Its elegant form brings movement and softness to sunny landscapes while maintaining a rugged tolerance for heat, drought, and challenging growing conditions. Height & Spread: 3 - 4 ft x 2 - 3 ft Bloom Time: Summer to fall Light Requirements: Full sun Soil Preference: Well drained soil; tolerant of poor and rocky soils Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established Deer Resistance: Deer resistant Native Status Nassella ichu is native to South America where it naturally occurs across high elevation grasslands of the Andes. It is not native to North America but is valued in ornamental plantings for its durability, graceful texture, and ability to thrive in dry conditions. WILDLIFE & INSECTS Birds Provides cover and nesting material for small birds while the mature seed heads may be visited by seed eating species later in the season. Wildlife Offers shelter and protective cover for beneficial garden wildlife throughout the growing season. Spacing & Landscape Use Spacing Recommendations Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow its arching habit and flowering stems to develop fully. Landscape Placement Excellent for dry borders, gravel gardens, prairie style plantings, and slopes where its flowing texture adds movement and year round interest. Companion Plants Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' (Feather Reed Grass) - Adds strong vertical structure that contrasts beautifully with the soft arching form. Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Contributes seasonal color and native grass texture in naturalistic plantings. Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) - Provides airy lavender blooms and exceptional drought tolerance. Eryngium yuccifolium (Rattlesnake Master) - Introduces unique flower texture and thrives in similar sunny dry conditions. Gaura lindheimeri (Beeblossom) - Offers delicate flowers that complement the grass's movement and light appearance.
