Pheasant's Tail Grass 'Capriccio' (Anemanthele lessoniana): A Graceful, Evergreen Grass with Copper Highlights

Pheasant's Tail Grass 'Capriccio' is a cultivar of Anemanthele lessoniana (syn. Stipa arundinacea), a grass native to New Zealand. It is prized for its year-round color—green with orange, copper, and gold highlights that intensify in sun and cold.

Fountain of Color

This grass forms a flowing, fountain-like clump 3–4 feet tall and wide. The narrow, arching leaves are olive-green with strong orange-bronze streaking, especially on the upper surfaces. In summer, airy, drooping panicles of tiny, purple-tinged flowers add a hazy veil. It is evergreen in most climates.

Versatile and Tough

Anemanthele lessoniana thrives in full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and handles coastal conditions. 'Capriccio' is a selected form with enhanced color. Use in borders, containers, mass plantings, and slopes. Cut back in spring if foliage becomes tatty.