Speargrass Golden Aciphylla Aurea is an evergreen, tussock forming perennial native to New Zealand. Speargrass Golden seeds can be started indoors in winter or spring 6-8 weeks before last frost. Also commonly called Golden Spaniard, this can reach 3 feet tall and equally as wide forming clumps of yellowish-green, narrow, stiff, stiletto-like, sharp pointed leaves, and this armature makes this plant very deer resistant. Once Golden Speargrass matures, 2.5 feet tall, golden colored inflorescence emerges in summer from the center of the clump bearing huge, impressive, broad heads of golden flowers. The sturdy flowering spike may remain on the plant for up to two years.
Speargrass Golden is distinctive and unusual perennial with great architectural merit, and this distinctive looking plant is perfect for planting in rock gardens and exposed meadows. Aciphylla Aurea seeds must be cold stratified, and a 30 day cold period is recommended. One way to accomplish this is to sow the seed in small pots in a sandy mixture which can be made by adding one part sand, one part grit and 2 parts potting mix to make a seed mix. After sowing the seed on top of the soil and covering it lightly with grit, the seed mix has to be lightly watered in and placed in a plastic bag before placing it in the refrigerator for 30 days. Once established, Golden Speargrass is the maintenance free plant that requires reasonable drainage and grows best in full sun in cool summers enjoying some afternoon shade in climates with hot summers.
PLANT PROFILE
Season: Perennial
Height: 24-36 Inches
Bloom Season: Summer
Environment: Sun/Partial Shade
Soil Type: Average/Dry/Moist well-drained, pH 5.8-6.8
USDA Zones: 5-9
PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS
Sow Indoors: Winter/Spring (6-8 weeks before last frost)
Sow Outdoors: Spring/Fall
Seed Depth: 1/8 Inch
Germination Time: 60-90 Days
