Fan-leaf Speargrass

From Seed

Like many alpine speargrasses, Aciphylla subflabellata is best propagated from fresh seed. The viability of the seed decreases rapidly with storage, so harvesting and sowing immediately after ripening in late summer is the most effective strategy.

Prepare a seed bed or tray with a very gritty, low-nutrient mix-replicating the skeletal soils of its native dryland habitat. A mixture of coarse sand, alpine grit, and a small amount of sterile compost works well. Sow the seeds on the surface and cover with a fine layer of stone chips. This top dressing mimics the natural scree environment, keeps the collar of the seedling dry, and prevents moss growth.

Cold stratification is often required to break dormancy. If fresh sowing doesn't yield results before winter, leave the seed trays outside in a protected spot where they will experience natural winter chilling. Germination typically occurs the following spring as temperatures rise. Seedlings develop a long taproot early on, so prick them out into deep containers (like root trainers) as soon as they are large enough to handle to prevent root distortion.

From Division

Division of Aciphylla subflabellata is difficult due to its strong, deep taproot system, which anchors the plant firmly into rocky substrates. However, it is possible with care, particularly with multi-crowned specimens. Attempt division in early spring before active growth surges.

Because digging up a mature plant can be destructive, it is often better to carefully expose the crown and use a sharp, sterile knife to cut away a side rosette that has formed its own roots. Treat the cut surface with a fungicide or sulphur powder to prevent rot-a major risk for this dry-adapted species.

Pot the division into deep, gritty soil and keep it in a shaded, dry place until established. Avoid overwatering; the thick roots store moisture, and the plant is far more likely to die from wet feet than from drought during the recovery phase.

Cultivation and Maintenance

Aciphylla subflabellata is adapted to the dry, eastern hill country and intermontane basins. It requires full sun and dislikes humidity. In humid, lowland gardens, it is prone to fungal diseases and rot. Ideally, grow it in a raised scree bed, a rock garden with gravel mulch, or a dedicated alpine trough.

Do not bury the crown of the plant; sit it slightly proud of the soil surface and surround it with gravel. This ensures that water drains away instantly from the sensitive growing point. Once established, it is incredibly drought-tolerant and hardy to severe cold. It requires no fertilizer; in fact, rich soils can lead to soft, lanky growth that collapses. This species is valued for its precise, geometric form and "fan-like" leaf arrangement, which is best maintained by growing it "hard" in lean, dry conditions.