Celtica gigantea

The giant feather grass, is an ornamental bunchgrass in the (Poaceae) family. The giant feather grass is native to southern Europe, the Iberian Peninsula, and northern Africa in regions that historically had Celtic inhabitants. The epithet is derived from Latin gigantea in reference to its large flowering stems. Giant feather grass was formerly known as stipa gigantea.

Giant feather grass does best in full sun and well-drained fertile soil. It grows in a clumping form, up to 8 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide. It is propagated by division, preferably during mid-spring to early summer. 

The giant feathergrass has many positive attributes. It has a lengthy and colorful bloom period. Tall stems have seed-like purple or silver flower spikes that appear spring to mid-summer. The long-lasting flowers gradually turn golden hued lasting through autumn and winter. When wind blows through the leaves the shimmer sound resembles sea waves. The feathergrass is attractive to songbirds. This ornamental grass received the Royal Horticultural Society Order of Merit under its prior designation as stipa gigantea.

The feathergrass can be used in mediterranean gardens, as a border at the back or edge of gardens and in children's playgrounds. It can be used as a single focal plant or massed.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: This is a low maintenance plant that is deer resistant.