How to grow plume grass
Overview
Plume grass (Dichelachne crinita) is a clumping, warm-season perennial grass native to eastern and southern Australia. It is grown for its soft, feathery seed heads that sway in the breeze, adding movement and texture to meadow-style or naturalistic plantings. The key requirement is excellent drainage; it will not tolerate wet feet.
Soil Preparation
Plume grass prefers a free-draining soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Sandy loam or gravelly soil is ideal; if planting in clay, amend with coarse sand or gypsum to improve drainage. Avoid heavy mulching around the crown.
Growing Guide
Plant plume grass in a position with full sun and well-drained soil; it thrives in sandy or gravelly loams. Space clumps 30–50 cm apart for a dense effect or 60–80 cm for specimen plants. Sow seed directly in spring (temperate) or autumn (mediterranean/subtropical) at 3–5 mm depth, or plant potted divisions at the same depth as the nursery pot. Water in well after planting, then allow the soil to dry between waterings. Do not overwater; established plants are drought-tolerant.
Sowing
Sow seed in spring or autumn at 3–5 mm depth in seed trays or direct in the garden. Germination takes 14–21 days at 18–22°C. Thin to 10–15 cm apart when seedlings are 5 cm tall. Direct sowing is easiest; transplanting is also fine.
Care
Feed with a low-nitrogen native fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth. Cut back old foliage to ground level in late winter to encourage fresh new shoots. Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring to maintain vigour and prevent centre dieback.
Companion Planting
Good companions include paper daisies (Rhodanthe), kangaroo paw (Anigozanthos), and blue flax (Linum). Avoid planting near moisture-loving species like rushes or sedges, as they will compete poorly and may cause root rot in plume grass.
Common Pests & Risks
Plume grass is generally pest-free, but may occasionally attract aphids on new growth or grasshoppers in dry summers. Control aphids with a strong water spray or insecticidal soap; grasshoppers are rarely a problem and can be ignored. No significant diseases occur if drainage is adequate.
Harvesting
Plume grass is not harvested for a crop; the seed heads are ornamental and can be cut for dried flower arrangements. Harvest stems when the seed heads are fully formed but before they begin to shatter, typically in late summer to early autumn. Cut at the base and hang upside down to dry.
Troubleshooting
Yellowing leaves: usually overwatering or poor drainage – reduce water and check soil. Brown leaf tips: dry air or under-watering – increase water slightly. Stunted growth: lack of sun – move to full sun. Seed heads not forming: too much nitrogen – switch to low-nitrogen fertiliser. Clump centre dying: needs division – divide every 3–4 years.