Noninvasive Grasses

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Noninvasive Grasses

Ornamental grass is at its best in fall and winter.

Ornamental grasses are very useful in a mixed border or perennial garden or even as a specimen plant or hedge. They add texture, grace, verticality and movement and have a year-round presence in the garden. These non-invasive grasses are clumping varieties and will gradually expand in size, but won't spread out of control. They're not prone to re-seed. Except where noted, they're all hardy to USDA zones 5 to 9.

Notes on Invasiveness

By their definition, an ornamental grass does not re-seed. However, as a practical matter, some grasses will re-seed in some regions under some circumstances. Each state publishes a list of invasive plants and you should check with your state's list for a definitive answer for any grasses you're considering. Some varieties of Japanese Silver Grass (Miscanthus sinensis) are known to cause seedling problems for some gardeners. Additionally, some ornamental grasses spread by aggressive runners and invade neighboring areas. Ribbon grass (Phalaris arundinacea) is a well-known offender for running. When introducing new grasses to your garden, especially in warm climates, always check for seedlings and runners each year while the plant is young and remove plants early before a problem grass gets established.

Feather Reed grass (Calamagrostis acutiflora "Karl Foerster")

This narrow upright grass grows to 7 feet tall and blooms relatively early in the season, sending out slightly purple flowers as early as June in some areas. The flower plumes become buff colored for winter, then stay upright and neat through most of that season. Unlike many ornamental grasses, feather reed grass doesn't flop when planted in a light shade area.

Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium "The Blues")

An original prairie grass, little bluestem is extremely versatile in its growing preferences. It grows in moist or dry locations as well as acid and alkaline soils and can tolerate some shade. "The Blues" is one of the more colorful varieties, with sturdy light blue foliage, and grows 3 to 4 feet tall. It's hardy to USDA Zone 3.

Purple Moor Grass (Molinia litorialis "Variegata")

A smaller grass than most, Molinia grows about 2 feet tall with flower stalks rising 2 to 4 feet above the foliage. This grass grows best in cooler climates and doesn't flower well in extreme heat. Variegata has striped yellow and cream foliage and the flowers have an attractive purple tint.

Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra "Aureola")

Not many grasses grow well in shade, but Japanese Forest Grass is an exception. This plant has dramatic golden mounded, weeping foliage and is a superb accent plant in a shade garden. H. "Aureola" is slow growing to 18 inches tall and wide. Other cultivars are equally decorative and come in different sizes and colors. This plant is hardy to USDA Zone 4.

Japanese Silver Grass (Miscanthus sinensus "Morning Light")

Although some Miscanthus varieties self-sow in certain habitats within some regions of the country, the "Morning Light" variety blooms late and is not inclined to self-sow because there's not enough time for seeds to form before winter. It's one of the most popular Miscanthus varieties with fine texture and a graceful rounded habit.

Ravenna Grass (Saccharam ravennae)

Also known as plume grass or hardy pampas grass, this is one of the few large grasses that grow in northern climates. It's hardy to USDA Zone 6. It flowers on 8- to 12-foot stalks in August or September with large silvery plumes that can be cut for indoor arrangements. There is a small chance of re-seeding in very warm climates.

Wedding outfits

Wednesday, January 29, 2014