Deschampsia cespitosa 'Goldtau' is a refined ornamental selection of tufted hair grass known for its dense mounding habit and shimmering golden seed heads. Its fine textured foliage forms a neat base, remaining attractive well into winter and offering subtle movement and structure in naturalistic or formal plantings.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early to mid summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soils; tolerates a range of textures
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates occasional dryness
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from Deschampsia cespitosa, a species native to temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Selected ornamental form bred for its compact habit and showy seed heads.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Provides resting and egg laying habitat for grass skippers such as Tawny Edged Skipper and Sachem.
Moths
- Host plant for several moth species including the Common Grass Veneer and Brown Line Bright Eye.
Bees
- Offers pollen to small native bees attracted to grass florets, particularly in open meadow settings.
Birds
- Finches and sparrows feed on ripened seed heads while foliage provides cover for nesting and foraging.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart for full mound development and air circulation.
Landscape Placement:
- Well suited for naturalistic groupings, rain gardens, mixed borders, and meadow style plantings. Maintains strong visual interest through winter.
Companion Plants
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - A fine textured perennial that harmonizes with grass foliage while adding yellow color through summer.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Lavender flowering native that attracts pollinators and balances the verticality of Deschampsia.
- Rudbeckia hirta (Black Eyed Susan) - Offers bold color and upright form to contrast with flowing grass seed heads.
- Allium cernuum (Nodding Onion) - Delicate nodding flowers and strappy leaves echo the texture and rhythm of Deschampsia.
- Geum triflorum (Prairie Smoke) - Low growing spring bloomer with feathery seed heads that blend beautifully with grass movement.