Grass, Chasmanthium latifolium

This clump-forming, upright, ornamental grass is a Missouri native plant and 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 even in the softest of breezes. Seed heads emerge green but turn purplish bronze by late summer. The upright clump of bright green leaves turn a coppery color after frost and eventually brown by winter. Excellent for dried flower arrangements. Deserves to be much more widely used, tolerating a wide range of soil and light conditions, but happiest in moist soil with dappled shade. Self seeds, but seedlings are easily removed if unwanted.

Grass, Northern Sea Oats Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Northern Sea Oats grass is easily grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerant of poor soils, but prefers moist, fertile soils. One of the more shade tolerant of the ornamental grasses, chasmanthium latifolium self-seeds and may spread aggressively. Since seedheads become more attractive as they age and darken by fall, plant it among shrubs and perennials that either turn color or flower then. Leaving foliage in place over winter adds interest to the landscape and helps protect crowns from the cold. Cut back to the ground in early spring.