Aira caryophyllea

RHS Plant Profile
silver hair grass

Other common names

mouse grass, brigwellt arian

Synonyms

Aira armoricana
Aira multiculmis

Annual Biennial Grass Like

A native annual grass found throughout the British Isles, forming dense tussocks up to 30cm high, with very fine, thread-like leaves. Airy sprays of silvery spikelets, sometimes tinged purple, appear from late spring to mid-summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Size

Time to Maturity
1 year

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Poaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
Genus
Aira can be annual or biennial, tufted grasses with thread-like leaves and lax panicles of small silvery or purplish flowers in summer
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Europe, Asia, Africa

How to Grow

Cultivation

Found on dry, sandy or rocky ground, even growing on walls. It will thrive in poor, well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Cut back old growth in early spring to keep tidy

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free