Bloom Color

Interesting Notes

This clump-forming, upright, ornamental grass is a Missouri native plant which typically grows 2-5' and most often occurs in rich woods or rocky slopes along streams and on moist bluffs. This grass is perhaps most distinguished by the flat, drooping seed heads which hang in terminal clusters on thread-like pedicils from slightly arching stems. Seed heads will flutter when caressed by even the softest of breezes. Seed heads emerge green but turn purplish bronze by late summer. Bright green leaves (5-9" long) turn a coppery color after frost and eventually brown by winter. Excellent for dried flower arrangements. Common name of inland sea oats is in reference to the similarity of the seed heads to those of oats. This grass was once known as Uniola latifolia. Kemper Center for Home Gardening

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Chasmanthium latifolium is a great choice for stabilization of a stream bank or a shady hill. It is happiest in a moist partly shady site, but in such a place it will roam rampantly. In a drier location it is kept in check, but still looks lovely. Excellent salt tolerance.