How to Grow Vasey Grass
Vasey Grass
Paspalum urvilei
grassVasey grass is a warm-season perennial bunchgrass native to South America, known for its attractive feathery seed heads and fine texture. It grows as an ornamental and is valued for erosion control and wildlife habitat. The grass produces delicate, purplish-tinged panicles that persist attractively through fall and into winter.
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Example Vasey Grass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Vasey Grass
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 Vasey Grass
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Vasey Grass dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 7-10; best performance in zones 8-9
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Get my Vasey Grass timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksFine grass shoots emerge, developing narrow leaf blades. Plants are delicate and vulnerable.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Protect from heavy foot traffic. Provide partial shade if in very hot climates.
Establishment
4-8 weeksRoot system develops; plant grows to 12-18 inches tall with increasing leaf density. Bunchgrass form becomes evident.
Water moderately during dry periods. Begin to reduce watering frequency. No fertilizer needed if soil is reasonable.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through mid-summerPlant reaches full mature height of 2-3 feet with dense foliage. Clump expands outward.
Minimal maintenance. Drought-tolerant at this stage. Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilizer which reduces ornamental quality.
Flowering & Seed Production
August through DecemberDelicate, feathery seed heads (panicles) emerge in late summer to early fall, initially greenish then purplish-tan.
Do not cut or deadhead; the seed heads are the main ornamental feature. Enjoy the display through winter.
Dormancy & Winter
January through MarchFoliage browns and dies back; seed heads persist on stems, providing winter interest and wildlife food.
In early spring (late February to March), cut back to 4-6 inches to make room for new growth. Burn or remove old material.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Usually not serious on mature grass. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil for seedlings if needed; introduce beneficial insects.
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Rare on this species; monitor for wilting. Use neem oil or horticultural oil if present.
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May occur in very humid conditions; improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, remove affected leaf material.
Uses
Ornamental Landscape
OrnamentalVasey grass adds fine texture and airy movement to gardens with its feathery seed heads providing season-long interest, especially attractive in fall and winter displays. [source]
Wildlife Habitat & Food
WildlifeThe persistent seed heads provide food for birds and small mammals throughout fall and winter, making it valuable for creating wildlife habitat. [source]
Dried Arrangements
HouseholdThe delicate panicles can be harvested in fall and dried for use in floral arrangements and dried bouquets. [source]
Erosion Control
CulinaryDense root systems and bunchgrass form help stabilize soil on slopes and prevent erosion, making it useful in conservation plantings. [source]
Textural Landscape Element
CraftThe fine, delicate foliage and airy panicles contrast beautifully with bolder perennials and shrubs in mixed borders. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested for use. Seed heads can be cut in fall for dried arrangements. Allow some seed heads to remain on the plant for self-seeding and wildlife food. Cut back dormant foliage in late winter (February-March) before new growth begins.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Vasey grass is native to South America but has become popular in warmer regions of the United States for its drought tolerance and aesthetic appeal.
- 🌱 The scientific name 'Paspalum urvilei' honors the feathery, hair-like appearance of its seed heads ('paspalum' relates to a millet-like grass).
- 🌱 This grass is one of the few warm-season ornamental grasses that performs well in part shade, making it more versatile than many other Paspalum species.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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