Grass · Poaceae family
Silver spike grass
Stipa calamagrostis
In short a 10-second read
spacing 31½ in
Where to plant and how much to water
Sun, soil and water.
It grows best in full sun, in dry soil.
Sun
Soil
Watering
Frost
How much space it takes
Mature size.
The mature plant next to a person (69 in).
Plant 31½ in apart.
Reaches maturity in about 2–5 years. The final size depends on the cultivar and the spot — we give the range from smallest to largest.
Calendar
Through the year.
Typical for a temperate climate (four seasons). The line shows the current month.
The year at a glance
Planting
container plant: March–April, September–October
What to plant now (March) full list in March (284) →What to plant now (April) full list in April (323) →What to plant now (September) full list in September (146) →What to plant now (October) full list in October (243) →
Feeding
Nutrition.
Pests and diseases
Common problems and what to do.
The most common problems in Central Europe. Protection is listed from the gentlest option.
No serious pests or diseases
Generally pest-free and disease-free.
Sources (1)
What to combine it with
Same needs, different flowering.
They share the same sun and soil and flower in other months — so the bed flowers for longer.
Frequently asked
Quick answers.
Does silver spike grass tolerate shade?
No, it needs full sun.
How much space does silver spike grass need?
At maturity 2 ft 7½ in wide and 1 ft 7⅝ in–2 ft 11⅜ in tall; recommended spacing 31½ in.
Sources (7) Checked 24 October 2026
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Calamagrostis brachytricha