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Grass Like
Xerophyllum tenax
bear grass
An upright, rhizomatous perennial to 75cm tall, forming a clump of stiff, grass-like leaves; mid-green above, glaucous blue-green beneath and with rough margins. In summer it produces dense, terminal clusters of small, funnel-shaped white to cream flowers; these are good for cutting
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Cream White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Melanthiaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Tufted
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Western N America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Protect the crowns with a dry winter mulch
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or by dividing the crowns in early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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