Deschampsia cespitosa 'Pixie Fountain' is a refined dwarf selection of tufted hair grass featuring delicate arching green blades and fine textured summer flower panicles. It brings a graceful airy movement to the garden while maintaining a compact clump forming habit ideal for small borders or container groupings.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Early to mid summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil; tolerates light clay or sandy conditions
Watering Needs: Moderate; appreciates consistent moisture in hot climates
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed by deer due to fine foliage texture
Native Status
This ornamental selection originates from Deschampsia cespitosa, a cool season grass native to North America and Eurasia. It is well adapted to both cultivated gardens and naturalistic designs.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts solitary ground nesting bees seeking shelter beneath fine textured foliage clumps.
Birds
- Seed heads provide seasonal forage for small birds like finches and sparrows in late summer.
Beneficial Insects
- Tufted form offers overwintering refuge for lady beetles, lacewings, and predatory spiders.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 12 - 18 in apart to form tight elegant drifts or texture accents within mixed beds.
Landscape Placement:
- Perfect for modern naturalistic plantings, meadow edges, or softening hardscape transitions in smaller gardens.
Companion Plants
- Geum triflorum (Prairie Smoke) - Unique seed plumes mirror the fine texture of Deschampsia while adding seasonal whimsy.
- Veronica spicata 'Royal Candles' - Dense upright spikes in violet blue contrast with the grass’s flowing form.
- Allium senescens 'Blue Eddy' - Compact spiraling foliage and late summer lavender globes echo the grass’s airy structure.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' - Deep purple spires enhance movement and extend seasonal bloom interest.
- Heuchera 'Obsidian' - Deep black foliage anchors the planting and makes the fine blades pop visually.