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Chionochloa rubra
red tussock grass
Chionochloa rubra
Chionochloa rubra, commonly known as Red Tussock Grass, is an elegant and robust perennial grass native to New Zealand. It is characterized by its striking reddish-bronze foliage, which intensifies in color during the cooler months. This tussock grass forms dense clumps and provides excellent habitat and erosion control in its native environment. It is relatively low-maintenance once established.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Estimated Plant Lifespan20 years lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Pollination

Method: Wind

Watering Requirements

Method: Top water

Frequency: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry.

Notes: Once established, Chionochloa rubra is relatively drought-tolerant.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate

Care InstructionsTrim back dead or damaged foliage in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
Temperature Range

Min: -5°C

Max: 30°C

Alternative Namesred tussock
Libertia peregrinans
Libertia peregrinans
Provides contrasting foliage color and texture, creating visual interest. Both plants thrive in similar conditions.
Astelia chathamica
Chatham Island Kakaha
Astelia chathamica
Provides a striking contrast with its silvery foliage and tolerates similar growing conditions, enhancing the visual appeal of the planting.
Lolium perenne
Perennial Ryegrass
Lolium perenne

Perennial Ryegrass can compete aggressively for resources, potentially outcompeting Chionochloa rubra, especially in disturbed or nutrient-rich soils.

Phalaris arundinacea
reed canary grass
Phalaris arundinacea

Reed Canary Grass is a vigorous grass that can quickly spread and displace Chionochloa rubra, especially in moist or wet areas.

Aphids

Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can weaken the plant by feeding on its foliage. Symptoms include distorted or yellowing leaves and the presence of sticky honeydew.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that cause stippling on leaves and eventually webbing. They thrive in hot, dry conditions.

Steps:

    • Collect seeds from mature plants in late summer or early fall.
    • Sow seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix.
    • Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
    • Transplant seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle.
    • Divide established clumps in spring or early fall.
    • Carefully dig up the clump and separate it into smaller sections, ensuring each section has healthy roots and shoots.
    • Replant the divisions in well-prepared soil.

Neem Oil

Effective natural insecticide and miticide to control aphids and spider mites.

Seaweed Extract

Promotes healthy root growth and overall plant vigor, enhancing resistance to pests and diseases.