New Zealand Fescue (Festuca novae-zelandiae): Tussock Grass for Cool Climates

Overview

New Zealand Fescue (Tussock Grass, Hard Tussock) is a cool-season, perennial bunchgrass native to New Zealand. It forms dense, upright tussocks of narrow, tough leaves, often with a tawny or bronze cast. Grows 1-2 feet tall. Adapted to harsh, windy, exposed conditions.

Taxonomy & Nomenclature

Cultivation & Uses

Full sun; well-drained soil. Tolerates wind, salt spray, and drought. Used for revegetation, erosion control, and as an ornamental in coastal and rock gardens. The tight tussocks provide habitat for insects. Low maintenance.