Bunny Tails Grass (Lagurus ovatus), often referred to as Lagurus, is a charming ornamental grass native to the Mediterranean region. It is popular in gardens, flower arrangements, and as a dried flower, thanks to its fluffy, round seed heads that resemble soft bunny tails. This grass is valued for its soft, silvery-green foliage and its ability to create a unique, airy look in gardens, containers, and flower beds. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to care for Bunny Tails Grass.

1. Overview of Bunny Tails Grass

• Botanical Name: Lagurus ovatus
• Common Name: Bunny Tails Grass, Hare’s Tail Grass
• Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
• Native Habitat: Mediterranean regions of Europe, Asia, and North Africa
• Mature Size: Typically 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall and 12 inches (30 cm) wide
• Foliage: Silvery-green to grayish-green leaves that are narrow and linear
• Flower/Seed Heads: Soft, fluffy, oval-shaped seed heads resembling the tail of a bunny (usually cream to white)
• Flowering Season: Late spring to early summer (often around May and June)
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 8–11 (can be grown as an annual in colder climates)
• Uses: Ornamental grass, dried flower arrangements, cut flowers
• Growth Habit: Clumping grass
• Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets

2. Choosing the Right Location

Bunny Tails Grass prefers full sun for optimal growth. It thrives in bright, sunny spots where it can get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate some light shade, but the more sunlight it receives, the more vigorous and vibrant the plant will be.

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• Outdoor Growing: If you’re planting Bunny Tails Grass outdoors, choose a well-drained garden bed, flower border, or container. It’s ideal for adding texture to garden landscapes or filling in small spaces.
• Indoor Growing: If you live in a region with cooler climates, or if you’re growing Bunny Tails Grass in a container, place it in a sunny windowsill or in a spot where it can receive adequate light, like a south-facing window.

3. Soil Requirements

Bunny Tails Grass is relatively easy-going when it comes to soil. It thrives in well-draining soil and is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or even slightly rocky soils. However, it does not do well in heavy clay or overly compacted soils.

• Soil pH: It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.5). Avoid overly alkaline soils, as this can stunt growth.
• Soil Preparation: To ensure proper drainage, amend heavy soils with sand, perlite, or organic matter to improve texture. Bunny Tails Grass does not require rich, fertile soil, but adding compost can encourage healthy growth and a more vibrant display.

4. Planting Bunny Tails Grass

Planting Bunny Tails Grass is a relatively simple process. Whether you are growing it from seed or purchasing established plants, follow these steps:

Planting from Seed

Bunny Tails Grass can be grown from seed, and it’s often the most cost-effective way to grow this ornamental grass.

1. Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area if you’re in a colder climate. Alternatively, sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost in spring.
2. Sowing Indoors: Plant seeds in small pots or seed trays filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Scatter the seeds lightly on the surface of the soil and press them gently. Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy. Provide bright, indirect light to encourage germination.
3. Sowing Outdoors: Once the risk of frost has passed, sow Bunny Tails Grass seeds directly into the ground. Space the seeds 6-12 inches apart and lightly cover them with soil. Keep the area moist until the seeds germinate.
4. Transplanting Seedlings: When the seedlings have grown large enough to handle and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into their permanent location in the garden, spacing them 12 inches apart.

Planting Established Plants

If you’re planting mature Bunny Tails Grass plants, you can directly plant them in the ground or containers.

1. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the plant’s root ball.
2. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
3. Fill in the hole with soil and lightly firm it down around the roots.
4. Water the plant immediately after planting to help it settle in.

5. Watering Bunny Tails Grass

Bunny Tails Grass is a drought-tolerant plant once established, but it still requires consistent watering, especially during its growing season. Here’s how to properly water it:

• Initial Watering: When planting Bunny Tails Grass, water the soil thoroughly to help the plant establish its roots.
• Regular Watering: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. However, make sure the soil dries out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Signs of Overwatering: If the plant’s leaves turn yellow or become mushy, it may be a sign of overwatering. Ensure the plant is not sitting in waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.
• Watering Frequency: During the warmer months, water every 1-2 weeks. During the cooler months, reduce watering frequency, as the grass enters dormancy.

6. Fertilizing Bunny Tails Grass

Bunny Tails Grass is not a heavy feeder, but occasional fertilizing can help encourage lush growth and vibrant seed heads. Follow these tips:

• Fertilizing Frequency: Fertilize once or twice during the growing season (spring and early summer). A light application of balanced fertilizer or a slow-release granular fertilizer is sufficient.
• Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) or a cactus/succulent fertilizer, which is low in nitrogen and suitable for ornamental grasses.
• Signs of Overfertilization: Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive, leggy growth with fewer flowers. If this happens, stop fertilizing for a while and let the plant recover.

7. Pruning and Deadheading

Bunny Tails Grass does not require much pruning, but removing dead or damaged foliage can help improve the plant’s appearance.

• Cutting Back: In the late fall or early spring, cut back the plant to about 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) above the ground to remove any old, dried-out growth. This helps make room for new growth in the spring.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flower heads as they fade to encourage fresh blooms and a tidier appearance.

8. Winter Care and Overwintering

In USDA Zones 8-11, Bunny Tails Grass is a perennial and can survive winter outdoors with minimal care. However, in colder zones, it may be treated as an annual.

• Outdoor Care in Cold Climates: If you live in a region with freezing winters, Bunny Tails Grass will likely die off during the cold months. If you want to overwinter the grass, dig up the plants and place them in containers to bring indoors during the winter months. Alternatively, you can propagate the plant by taking cuttings and replanting them in the spring.
• Mulching: In areas where winter temperatures are mild (USDA Zone 8), a light layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help protect the roots from frost. This is particularly useful if the plant is in a more exposed area.

9. Common Problems with Bunny Tails Grass

While Bunny Tails Grass is relatively low-maintenance, there are a few common issues to be aware of:

• Overwatering: As mentioned, overwatering is one of the most common problems. Ensure that the soil drains well and the plant isn’t sitting in stagnant water.
• Pests: Bunny Tails Grass is generally pest-resistant, but it can occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, or mealybugs. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations.
• Diseases: The grass is generally resistant to diseases, but root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. Ensure the plant has proper drainage to avoid this issue.

10. Propagation of Bunny Tails Grass

Bunny Tails Grass can be propagated by seed or division.

• Seed Propagation: As described earlier, you can grow Bunny Tails Grass from seed. Simply sow the seeds in spring and follow the proper steps for germination.
• Division: In late spring or early summer, you can divide established clumps of Bunny Tails Grass. Carefully dig up the plant and split the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each division has a good portion of roots. Replant the divisions in separate pots or garden beds.

11. Conclusion

Bunny Tails Grass is a delightful and easy-to-grow ornamental grass that adds soft texture and visual interest to any garden or home. Whether grown in containers or garden beds, it thrives in sunny spots with well-draining soil and minimal care. With its unique fluffy seed heads and graceful appearance, Bunny Tails Grass can be a great addition to your landscape, providing seasonal beauty and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Just remember to avoid overwatering, provide adequate sunlight, and prune it occasionally to keep it looking its best!