The current popularity of ornamental grasses has not been so grand since the Victorian Age. Many ornamental grasses are now available with new varieties continuously appearing. Some of the reasons for this astonishing rise in popularity appear to center around the practical, as well as aesthetic merit of ornamental grasses as a whole. As we become increasingly aware of the environmental forces in the landscape around us, many of the ornamental grasses that have an inherent ability to handle both the drought years as well as the wet years are being sought. This is something particularly appealing to us here in California with our "El Niño" rains and "La Niña" droughts. Another valuable environmental characteristic of some of the ornamental grasses is the ability to endure the continuous freezing and thawing of soils typical of the colder parts of the country during winter. There are also grasses that will thrive in relationship to water such as around ponds, streams, and actually in the water!
During the growing season depending on variety, ornamental grasses range in height from 6 inches to 14 or more feet and can be used as incredible accent plants, ground covers, screens, border edgings, or as companions with a wide range of flowering annuals and especially perennials. Color of foliage includes shades of green, green/yellow, green/blue, blue, red, brown, and variegated. Dried foliage and flowers on many ornamental grasses are attractive and will gracefully sway with the wind in the cold months adding a new dimension to the winter garden as well as being excellent for use in floral arrangements.
Grasses can have different cultural requirements so be familiar with the types you are growing. A couple of general requirements is that most prefer full sun, and should be cut to the ground in late fall or early spring when the leaves have turned brown. Use our Search function to find out specific variety requirements.
For specific information about different varieties of Ornamental Grasses, Click Here.
