Stipa Tenuissima Companion Plants: The Ultimate Guide

Are you looking for an ornamental grass that can add texture and movement to your garden? Look no further than Stipa tenuissima, also known as Mexican feather grass! This delicate-looking plant is surprisingly tough and requires minimal maintenance, making it a popular choice among gardeners. But did you know that Stipa tenuissima also makes an excellent companion plant? In this guide, we'll explore some of the best plants to pair with Stipa tenuissima, as well as some tips for planting and maintaining these combinations.

The Benefits of Companion Planting

Before we dive into the best companion plants for Stipa tenuissima, let's first discuss why companion planting is such a valuable practice in gardening. Companion planting involves growing different plants together that have complementary benefits, such as repelling pests, improving soil fertility, or providing shade. When correctly, companion planting can create a more balanced ecosystem in your garden, resulting in healthier, more productive plants. Some other benefits of companion planting include:

Improved Soil Health

Certain plants, such as legumes, have the ability to fix nitrogen from the air and store it in their roots. When these plants are grown alongside others that require high levels of nitrogen, such as leafy greens, they can help improve the overall health of the soil by providing a natural source of fertilizer.

Pest Control

Some plants, such as marigolds and chrysanthemums, contain compounds that repel common garden pests like aphids and whiteflies. By planting these "companion" plants alongside your vegetables or flowers, you can reduce the need for harmful pesticides and create a more natural pest control system.

Increased Biodiversity

Planting a variety of different species in your garden can help support a diverse range of pollinators and other beneficial insects. This, in turn, can lead to better plant health and improved yields.

Companion Plants for Stipa Tenuissima

Now that we've covered the benefits of companion planting, let's take a closer look at some of the best plants to pair with Stipa tenuissima:

1. Echinacea (Coneflower)

Echinacea is a native North American wildflower that produces striking pink, purple, or white blooms in late summer. When planted alongside Stipa tenuissima, the airy texture of the grass provides a beautiful backdrop for the bold, cone-shaped flower heads of the coneflower. Additionally, echinacea is known to attract a variety of pollinators, making it an excellent choice for any garden.

2. Salvia (Sage)

Salvia is a hardy perennial that produces spikes of blue, purple, or red flowers throughout the summer months. When planted alongside Stipa tenuissima, the upright form of the salvia creates a pleasing contrast to the feathery texture of the grass. Additionally, both plants require similar growing conditions, making them easy to care for together.

3. Sedum (Stonecrop)

Sedum is a low-growing succulent that produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, white, or yellow. When planted alongside Stipa tenuissima, the trailing habit of the sedum creates a cascading effect that complements the upright form of the grass. Both plants are drought-tolerant and require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal pairing for low-maintenance gardens.

4. Allium (Ornamental Onion)

Alliums are a type of bulb that produce tall stalks topped with large, spherical flower heads in shades of purple, pink, or white. When planted alongside Stipa tenuissima, the airy texture of the grass provides a subtle backdrop for the bold, architectural form of the allium. Additionally, alliums are known to repel common garden pests like slugs and snails, making them a valuable companion plant for any garden.

Planting and Maintaining Stipa Tenuissima Companion Plants

When planting Stipa tenuissima companion plants, it's important to consider the growing conditions of each individual species. While these four plants are all relatively low-maintenance, they do have slightly different requirements when it comes to soil, water, and sunlight. Here are some general tips for planting and maintaining Stipa tenuissima companion plants:

1. Choose the Right Location

Stipa tenuissima prefers well-draining soil and full sun, so be sure to choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Additionally, consider the soil requirements of your chosen companion plants and try to select species that have similar growing conditions.

2. Plant in Groups

To create a cohesive look, plant Stipa tenuissima and its companion plants in groups rather than scattering them throughout your garden. This will help create a sense of unity and make it easier to maintain the overall appearance of your garden.

3. Water Regularly

While Stipa tenuissima and its companion plants are generally drought-tolerant, they do require regular watering during the first few weeks after planting to help establish their root systems. After that, you can gradually reduce the frequency of watering, but be sure to monitor soil moisture levels and water as needed.

4. Mulch Around Plants

Adding a layer of organic mulch around your Stipa tenuissima companion plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Just be sure not to cover the base of the plant with mulch, as this can lead to rot and other problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Stipa tenuissima invasive?

No, Stipa tenuissima is not considered invasive in most areas. However, it is important to check with your local extension office or gardening authority to ensure that it is a safe choice for your region.

2. Can I grow Stipa tenuissima in containers?

Yes, Stipa tenuissima can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and has adequate drainage. Pair it with low-growing annuals like petunias or marigolds for a beautiful and easy-to-maintain container garden.

3. How often should I fertilize my Stipa tenuissima companion plants?

Stipa tenuissima and its companion plants generally do not require frequent fertilization. You can add a slow-release fertilizer at the time of planting, but be sure not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced plant health.

4. Can I divide my Stipa tenuissima plants?

Yes, Stipa tenuissima can be divided every few years to help rejuvenate the plant and maintain its overall health. Simply dig up the clump and gently separate it into smaller sections, then replant in a new location.

5. What pests or diseases should I watch out for when growing Stipa tenuissima?

Stipa tenuissima is generally resistant to common garden pests and diseases, but you may occasionally encounter issues like leaf spot or rust. If you notice any signs of disease, simply remove affected leaves or plants and dispose of them in the trash (not the compost pile).



Stipa tenuissima is a versatile and easy-to-grow ornamental grass that can add beauty and movement to any garden. By pairing it with complementary companion plants, you can create a more balanced ecosystem and enjoy even greater benefits. Whether you choose echinacea, salvia, sedum, alliums, or another species altogether, be sure to follow our tips for planting and maintaining these combinations to ensure the best possible results.