Anemanthle lessoniana
Anemanthele lessoniana (New Zealand Wind Grass)
(Synonyms occasionally include Stipa arundinacea in older literature)
Overview
Anemanthele lessoniana is a graceful, colourful NZ native grass prized for its arching, airy habit and year-round movement in the garden. Its fine foliage shifts from fresh green to warm shades of copper, gold and orange, bringing soft texture and glowing colour throughout the seasons.
Key Features
Foliage:
Fine, arching leaves that change colour through the year—green in spring, developing copper, amber, and orange tones as the seasons cool. Adds dynamic texture and soft movement to plantings.
Flowers / Fruit:
Delicate, open sprays of golden-pink flower stems in summer, rising above the foliage and catching the light beautifully. Seeds lightly.
Form & Habit:
Clumping, arching tussock forming a soft, billowing mound. Excellent for naturalistic or textural plantings.
Growth Rate:
Moderate.
Cultural & Ecological Value:
Provides shelter and habitat for insects; suitable for ecological and restoration projects, coastal areas, and low-maintenance plantings.
Mature Size
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 1.0–1.2 m |
| Spread | 1.0 m |
| Form | Arching, fountain-shaped clump |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Water | Low to moderate; good drought tolerance once established |
| Soil | Prefers free-draining soils; tolerates poor, dry, or sandy sites |
| pH Range | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy; tolerates frosts |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
-
Superb feature grass for borders, native gardens and textural planting schemes
-
Ideal for mass planting for colour and movement
-
Strong choice for coastal sites, slopes, and low-maintenance gardens
-
Blends well with flaxes, hebes, coprosmas and modern NZ native gardens
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Comb out old foliage by hand or trim lightly in late winter/early spring to refresh growth.
Watering: Minimal once established; occasional deep watering during extended dry spells.
Feeding: Not usually required; a light slow-release native fertiliser in spring can boost growth.
Pests & Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-free.
Additional Tips
Avoid over-wet or waterlogged soils. Allow space for the natural arching habit to develop. Ideal for windy locations.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
This species is one of only a few grasses native to New Zealand that naturally develops warm copper and sunset tones, making it highly valued for year-round ornamental contrast.
Why Choose Anemanthele lessoniana?
A stunning, easy-care NZ native grass offering movement, texture and warm seasonal colour—perfect for modern landscape design and tough sites.
Pot Size:
These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.
