Deschampsia 'Goldschleier'

Deschampsia 'Goldschleier': Golden Veils Backlit by Evening Sun

Most grasses sulk the second a tree casts a shadow. 'Goldschleier' just throws on a shimmering veil of plumes that go from silver to gold like it's walking down the aisle. NO ESCORT REQUIRED.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Deschampsia cespitosa 'Goldschleier'
• Common Name: Tufted Hair Grass, Gold Veil Hair Grass
• Height: 60–90 cm (2–3 ft) in flower
• Spread: 45–60 cm (1.5–2 ft)
• Flowers: Fine, open plumes with a silvery sheen that turn golden yellow, then straw coloured. They hold well into fall.
• Bloom Time: Early to midsummer (June to July)
• Foliage: Fine, dark bluish-green blades in a dense, rounded tuft. Semi-evergreen.
• Features: Cool-season grass, shade tolerant, long-lasting seed heads, holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit

Where to Plant: Plant it in drifts through a border, along a path, or in a naturalistic meadow planting. Put it where morning or evening sun comes through from behind, and don't be afraid to use it in a lightly shaded bed.

Companion Plants: The golden haze of this grass suits Astrantia 'Star of Fire', whose burgundy pincushion flowers at 60 cm bloom from June to August. Further back, Phlox 'Jeana' adds pink flower heads at 90 to 150 cm from July to September, carrying colour past the grass's peak. Weave Geranium 'Rozanne' along the front for violet flowers from June to early fall. Fine plumes, round flower heads and a low carpet make an easy, layered mix for sun or part sun.

Plant Care: Plant in full sun to part shade, in moist, well-drained soil with some organic matter. It does best where summers are cool and the soil doesn't bake. In hot, dry spots, a little afternoon shade and regular water keep the clump green. Leave the seed heads standing over winter. In early spring, comb out or cut back the old foliage before new growth starts. Avoid cutting it right to the ground if it's still green. Divide in spring or early fall every few years if the centre thins out.

History: 'Goldschleier' is a German selection of Deschampsia cespitosa, a grass that grows wild across the cooler parts of the northern hemisphere, including Canada, chosen for its golden flower plumes. It holds the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Final Thoughts: Plant a drift along the path and watch every evening sunbeam get tangled up in it. THE GOLDEN HOUR NOW LIVES IN YOUR YARD.