Chasmanthium latifolium
River Oats
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Known as River Oats or Northern Sea Oats, this US native produces a multitude of beautiful pale green seed heads in midsummer that are reminiscent of the sea oats found at the beach. Panicles drop under their weight and look absolutely beautiful when backlit by the sun. Chasmanthium latifolium is a tall ground cover that grows in just about any situation: sun, shade, moist or dry. This ornamental native grass is a great landscape solution for areas of dry shade. When planting, keep in mind that River Oats will spread and reseed, so place it in appropriate locations. When planted in sun, this plant may grow taller than four feet.
Zone
5-10
Growth Cycle
Warm
Features
- Native to North America
- Drought Tolerant
- Shade Tolerant
- Bioswales/Vegetated swales
GROWER INFO & TIPS
- Growth rate: medium
- Will grow well in any size pot; in general, pot 50s in 1 gallon, 32s in 2 gallon and 18s in 3 gallon
- Grow in well-drained soil
- Water needs: keep dry to moist, not wet
- Fertilizing: use a slow-release, medium-rate fertilizer
- Possible pests: root aphids, spittlebugs
- Overwintering: very hardy; do not overwater in winter; if left outside monitor water carefully
- This grass will turn yellow when lacking nutrients. Be sure to monitor salts. If necessary, apply iron or micronutrients.
*Note: please adapt these suggestions as needed to accommodate your local conditions.
LANDSCAPING INFO
- Native plant that handles dry shade
- Adaptable to most growing conditions from deep shade to full sun and dry to wet
- Very easy to grow and maintain
- Because of its adaptability, it can be planted in abandoned areas as well as in gardens
- Unique seed heads are great in flower arrangements
- Use in masses, borders, backdrops or as a tall ground cover
