Ornamental grasses bring more than just greenery to the garden — they add movement, structure, colour, and contrast in ways few plants can. With hues that span luminous reds, golds, silvers, and cool blues, and textures ranging from sleek to feathery, grasses are a perfect way to add year-round visual interest and natural grace to your outdoor spaces.
Why Choose Grasses?
Whether used as ground covers, borders, statement features, or companions to broadleaf and spiky plants, grasses deliver both form and function. Their fine strands catch sunlight beautifully, sway in the breeze, and complement everything from wildflower meadows to minimalist sculptural landscapes.
Grasses work wonders:
In wilderness-style gardens with flaxes and tall flowers
As edging or groundcover in compact spaces
To enhance architectural views on dry, windswept sites
As focal points in pots or containers, especially drought-tolerant varieties
In Japanese or water gardens, adding movement and serenity
And thanks to New Zealand’s native species—now loved by international designers—we’re spoilt for choice. Still, not all imported grasses are well-behaved; some spread aggressively or self-seed beyond control. Choose clump-forming varieties for easier maintenance, and steer clear of those listed as environmental pests.
Choosing the Right Grass for Your Space
Location matters. A tussock that thrives in dry alpine soils may struggle in a humid backyard. Subtropical grasses like mondo and Lomandra love warmer zones, while tougher natives like Poa cita stand up well to harsher southern climates.
For damp, well-drained soil:
Chionochloa rubra (Red tussock)
Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’
Imperata cylindrica ‘Rubra’
For wet ground:
Carex secta
Cortaderia fulvida (Toetoe)
Cyperus involucratus (Umbrella grass)
Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’
For dry, sunny spots:
Anemanthele lessoniana (Gossamer grass)
Carex comans
Festuca novae-zelandiae
Lomandra species
For shaded areas:
Ophiopogon species (Mondo grass)
Carex dipsacea
Luzula sylvatica ‘Marginata’
Warm climate standouts:
Chondropetalum tectorum (Thatching rush)
Elegia cuspidata
Chionochloa species
For cold climates:
Chionochloa rubra
Cortaderia richardii
Poa cita (Silver tussock)
Caring for Your Grasses
Grasses are generally low maintenance, but a little care keeps them looking lush and tidy:
Rake or comb out dead foliage by hand or gloved fingers
Deadhead to prevent unwanted self-seeding
Cut back deciduous grasses in late winter for fresh spring growth
Divide every few years to keep plants vigorous and prevent overcrowding
How to Divide Ornamental Grasses
Dividing is easy—and revitalising. You’ll need a spade (or something heavier for large clumps), a sharp knife, shears, and maybe even a chainsaw for mature clumps!
Lift the plant with a generous root ball
Divide using a clean, sharp tool
Trim foliage by a third to reduce stress
Replant quickly, ensuring roots don’t dry out
Whether you're designing a lush, modern space or restoring a coastal retreat, ornamental grasses offer a beautiful, versatile way to enhance your garden’s natural elegance. Let them dance in the wind and shine in the sun — your garden will thank you for it.