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Elegia elephantina
  • RHS AGM

An evergreen perennial to 1.5m, forming a dense clump of slender, upright, reed-like stems; these are encircled at intervals with brown sheaths. In summer it produces feathery dark brown flower spikes

Synonyms
Chondropetalum elephantinum
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Brown
Summer Green Brown Brown
Autumn Green Brown
Winter Green Brown
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Restionaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright, Clump forming
Genus

Elegia is a genus of grass-like plants endemic to Cape Province in South Africa. Some species are grown as ornamentals with their decorative golden to dark brown flower spikes. Flowers can be white to greenish yellow and are fairly small and insignificant.

Name status

Correct

Plant range
S Africa (Cape)

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile to poor soil in full sun. Keep plants well-watered until established

Propagation

Propagate by seed or division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • Coastal
  • Gravel garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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