Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Goldtau’, commonly known as Tufted Hairgrass, is a refined ornamental grass cultivar appreciated for its compact form, fine green foliage, and airy golden flower panicles. Blooming in early to midsummer, ‘Goldtau’ grows in tidy clumps about 18 to 24 inches tall, with flower stalks that rise slightly above the foliage and catch the light beautifully. While the species can be native to select regions of North America, ‘Goldtau’ is a cultivated European selection and offers limited ecological value compared to regional native grasses.

Why choose ‘Goldtau’ Tufted Hairgrass:

• Elegant texture: Fine green blades and soft golden flower heads add movement and lightness

• Compact habit: Tidy clumping form is ideal for borders and shade gardens

• Shade tolerant: One of the few ornamental grasses that performs well in part shade

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Grows in full sun to part shade

• Soil needs: Prefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates clay and wet conditions

• Maintenance: Cut back in late winter or early spring to refresh growth

Designs for your garden:

• Woodland edges: Perfect for transitioning from open to shaded areas

• Mixed borders: Adds texture and grace to native perennials and pollinator beds

• Rain gardens: Tolerates periodic moisture and helps stabilize soil

Ecological considerations:

• Non-native cultivar: Limited value for native insects and birds

• Best used with natives: Combine with native grasses and forbs to support biodiversity

• Non-invasive: Well-behaved in landscape settings

Looking for native alternatives?

Schizachyrium scoparium – Little Bluestem: A drought-tolerant native grass with blue-green summer foliage and bronze-red fall color.
Sporobolus heterolepis – Prairie Dropseed: A fine-textured, clump-forming native grass with fragrant seed heads and excellent movement.
Carex stricta – Tussock Sedge: A moisture-loving native sedge with an arching habit, perfect for part shade or wet meadow plantings.