Avalanche Feather Reed Grass

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

6-11 Inches

Mature Spread

2 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 8

The unique draw that sets this feather reed grass apart from others is its variegated foliage. The leaves are deep green with a band of white running down the middle. Avalanche has the same narrow, upright form as other feather reed grasses, lending a striking and dramatic interest to the landscape. Feathery plumes top the stalks in summer. They appear first as an airy light purple before aging to a golden tan and persisting into the winter. 

Deer-and rabbit-resistant, the Avalanche feather reed grass fits well into mediterranean and rustic garden styles. It has a fast growth rate, so is an excellent way to quickly fill in narrow spaces in the landscape. It works well as a border or backdrop for colorful perennials or annuals but also offers enough interest on its own to be a specimen plant. The flower plumes are also a top grass choice for fresh and dried flower arrangements.

Avalanche Feather Reed Grass Care

Grow the Avalanche feather reed grass in full sun for the most dramatic appearance. It has drought tolerance but prefers moderate moisture. The ideal soil for this grass is average and medium to wet and it can grow well in heavy clay soils. Water the plant deeply during its first season and whenever the top two inches of soil are dry. An annual application of all-purpose fertilizer encourages vigor. 

Like many other ornamental grasses, the Avalanche has few pruning requirements. Simply cut back old stems to within a few inches of the ground in early spring just as new growth begins to emerge from the plant base. 

Avalanche Feather Reed Grass Spacing

This fast-growing grass is tall and narrow, with foliage reaching a height of about four feet but flower plumes attaining a maximum height closer to six feet. Clumps are only one to two feet wide. As a border, plant individuals every two feet or so. Give them more space if you want them to stand out as a specimen or in a mixed planting.