Cynosurus cristatus

RHS Plant Profile
crested dog's tail

Other common names

dog's grass, dog's tail grass, windlestraw, rhonwellt y ci

Grass Like

Clump-forming evergreen perennial grass about 30-60cm tall, producing mounds of linear, flat, smooth mid-green leaves, and wiry stems bearing slender panicles of purple flower spikelets to 75cm tall, in early summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Poaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen, Evergreen
Habit
Tufted
Genus
A genus of tufted perennial grasses native to Europe, Asia and North Africa with narrow green foliage and tall wiry stems with seedheads of purple flowers
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, medium to light, well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed in spring or autumn or propagate by division between mid-spring and early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Ground cover

Pruning

Can be cut down after flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free