Wavy Hairgrass

Description

Wavy hair-grass, scientifically known as Deschampsia flexuosa, is a member of the Poaceae family, also referred to as crinkled hair-grass. This plant features wiry leaves and delicate, shaking panicles with silvery or purplish-brown flower heads on wavy, hair-like stalks. Growing to a height of 30-60 cm, its leaves are tightly bunched in tufts, forming a tussocky appearance.

Wavy hair-grass prefers acidic, free-draining soils, avoiding chalk and limestone areas. It is commonly found in heathlands, moorlands, woodland clearings, and sand dunes across Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. Flowering from June to August, it plays a significant ecological role by stabilising soil and preventing erosion, and is tolerant of poor, nutrient-deficient soils.

The plant provides cover and nesting material for small mammals and insects. Additionally, its attractive flower heads make it a popular choice for ornamental gardening in naturalistic planting schemes. Requiring minimal maintenance once established, wavy hair-grass is well-suited for low-maintenance landscaping projects.