Chionochloa conspicua
Notify MeChionochloa conspicua, known as Snow Tussock, is a hardy perennial grass native to New Zealand. It features silvery-green foliage that has an open flowering spike and forms a dense, tussocky shape, perfect for adding texture and movement to gardens. Suitable for rock, native, and modern landscapes, it serves well in coastal areas for windbreaks and erosion control. Chionochloa conspicua thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance and dry garden areas. Space plants 50-60 cm apart to allow for growth, reaching a mature size of up to 1.2m tall and 1m wide.
Trimming: Trim Chionochloa conspicua in late winter to early spring by combing through the foliage with gloved hands or a rake to remove dead leaves, rather than cutting the whole plant back. Tidy old flower stems at the base once they have finished flowering.
Deadheading: Deadheading is generally not required, though spent flower stems can be removed for a neater look.
Fertilising: Fertilise lightly in spring with a slow-release fertiliser if growth is weak. Avoid heavy feeding, as this can encourage soft, floppy growth.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment, especially through the first summer. Once established, water only during extended dry periods or extreme heat.
Pest control: Monitor for aphids, mealybug, and scale, especially around dense leaf bases. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Disease management: Watch for root rot in poorly drained soils, shown by yellowing foliage, plant collapse, or a sour smell around the roots. Improve drainage, avoid overwatering, and remove badly affected plants if necessary.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
