How to Grow Native Wildflowers: Stipa, Poa, and Lomandra
Native Wildflowers: Stipa, Poa, and Lomandra
Stipa spp., Poa spp., Lomandra spp.
grassA diverse group of native ornamental grasses and grass-like plants from Australia and temperate regions. These drought-tolerant species are prized for their fine foliage, elegant seed heads, and ability to support wildlife while requiring minimal maintenance once established.
When should you plant Native Wildflowers: Stipa, Poa, and Lomandra in your zone?
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Example Native Wildflowers: Stipa, Poa, and Lomandra timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Native Wildflowers: Stipa, Poa, and Lomandra
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Native Wildflowers: Stipa, Poa, and Lomandra
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Varies by species: Stipa thrives in zones 3-9; Poa in zones 2-10; Lomandra in zones 9-11 (some cultivars hardy to zone 8)
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Get my Native Wildflowers: Stipa, Poa, and Lomandra timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
3-6 weeksFine hair-like or needle-like leaves emerge; very delicate appearance; slow initial growth
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; protect from foot traffic; provide bright indirect light initially; avoid fertilizer
Establishment
6-12 weeksRoot system develops; foliage thickens gradually; plant reaches 4-8 inches tall depending on species
Water weekly if no rainfall; thin crowded seedlings; gradually increase light exposure; maintain well-draining conditions
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsVigorous leaf production; clumps expanding; characteristic fine or strap-like foliage becoming prominent
Reduce watering frequency as drought tolerance increases; no fertilizing needed; avoid compacting soil around plants; remove any weeds
Flowering & Seed Production
6-10 weeks (varies by species and climate)Elegant seed heads emerge on tall stems (Stipa produces feathery awns; Poa produces open panicles; Lomandra produces creamy flower spikes)
Cease supplemental watering; allow natural seed maturation; do not deadhead if wildlife benefit desired; stake tall varieties if needed in windy sites
Dormancy & Renewal
3-4 months (winter period)Foliage dries and may become golden or reddish; seed heads persist through winter; plant appears dormant but roots remain active
Cut back dead foliage in late winter/early spring before new growth; leave seed heads for wildlife through winter; do not water; clear debris from crown to prevent rot
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase air circulation; spray with water if infestation severe; rarely damaging to established plants
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and
(Noctuidae family)
Hand-pick if few; promote beneficial predators; neem oil for young transplants; established plants rarely affected
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Remove debris where they hide; copper barriers; hand collection; ensure good drainage to deter moisture-loving pests
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and
Improve air circulation; remove infected foliage; avoid overhead watering; fungicide if severe (rare in drought-tolerant natives)
Uses
Ornamental Arrangements & Dried Flowers
HouseholdStipa's feathery awns and Poa's delicate panicles are prized for dried flower arrangements and botanical displays. These seed heads maintain their beauty for months when dried and make elegant additions to interior décor. [source]
Native Wildlife & Pollinator Support
WildlifeThese grasses provide critical habitat and food sources for native birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Seed heads feed finches, sparrows, and other granivores while foliage shelters ground-nesting birds and invertebrates. [source]
Erosion Control & Soil Stabilization
HouseholdNative grasses establish deep, fibrous root systems that bind soil and prevent erosion on slopes, in rain gardens, and along waterways. Stipa and Poa are particularly effective in degraded or compacted soils. [source]
Landscape Design & Native Plant Restoration
CraftThese grasses are cornerstone plants in native plant gardens, meadows, and prairie restorations. Lomandra adds tropical structure; Stipa and Poa create flowing, naturalistic aesthetics that reduce maintenance needs. [source]
Traditional Indigenous Uses
MedicinalSeveral Stipa and Poa species have ethnobotanical significance in Indigenous cultures, historically used for food (seeds ground into flour), basketry, and thatching. Some species contain compounds studied for potential medicinal applications. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For seed collection: Cut seed heads when they turn tan/golden and feel papery (typically late summer to fall); place in paper bags to dry fully indoors; thresh gently to separate seeds; store in cool, dry conditions. For ornamental use: Allow seed heads to mature on plant for maximum visual appeal and wildlife benefit; cut arrangements before heavy rain or strong winds.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Stipa (feather grass) seeds have spiral awns that literally 'walk' across the ground when moistened—the awns flex and drill the seed into soil, a remarkable adaptation for drought environments.
- 🌱 Poa annua (annual bluegrass) can germinate in nearly any season and survive extreme cold; some Poa species survive being frozen completely and thaw intact in spring.
- 🌱 Lomandra is sometimes called 'mat rush' because its tough, fibrous leaves have been woven into baskets and mats by Australian Aboriginal peoples for thousands of years.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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