Deschampsia cespitosa 'Pixie Fountain' is a finely textured compact tufted grass known for its elegant arching habit and shimmering panicles that catch the light in early summer. Maintains form and presence throughout the year adding movement and softness to shaded or moisture retentive garden areas.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early to mid summer
Light Requirements: Part shade to full sun
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained to heavy clay soils
Watering Needs: Average; tolerates seasonal wetness once established
Deer Resistance: Generally avoided by deer due to its fine texture
Native Status
Deschampsia cespitosa is native to parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. 'Pixie Fountain' is a cultivar selected for compact form and ornamental quality retaining much of the species’ natural adaptability.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Finches and sparrows feed on its ripening seeds while the dense clumps provide cover and nesting material in naturalistic plantings.
Beneficial Insects
- The open flower structure supports tiny pollinators and predatory insects such as lacewings and parasitic wasps seeking shelter and pollen.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 18 - 24 in apart to allow air circulation and showcase its fine form.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent in moist borders, rain gardens, or as a matrix grass in naturalistic plantings with spring bulbs or ferns. Ideal for cottage gardens and shady woodland edges where light catching movement is desired.
Companion Plants
- Primula japonica (Japanese Primrose) - Layered whorls of pink flowers echo the loose texture and bloom in early summer.
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Silver veined leaves reflect light beneath the airy flowering plumes.
- Iris versicolor (Blue Flag Iris) - Adds vertical accents and bold color contrast in damp garden areas.
- Astilbe chinensis 'Pumila' - Short plumes of lavender pink provide complementary softness and bloom timing.
- Carex elata 'Aurea' - Bright yellow blades complement the cool green tufts of Deschampsia and thrive in the same moist soils.