Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Chasmanthium latifolium
Northern Sea Oats Grass
- Family
- Poaceae
- Height
- 2 to 5 feet
- Width
- 1 to 2 feet
- Flower color
- Green, maturing to tan
- Foliage color
- Green, turning yellow in fall
- Bloom time
- Summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Low; remove seed heads to prevent self-sowing
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Provides food and shelter for birds; deer resistant
About this plant
Chasmanthium latifolium, commonly known as Northern Sea Oats, is a perennial grass native to North America, particularly thriving in moist woodlands and along stream banks. This ornamental grass has distinctive, nodding seed heads that resemble oats, which emerge in late summer. These seed heads start as pale green and mature to a rich bronze by fall, adding dynamic visual interest to gardens.
A unique feature of Northern Sea Oats is its bamboo-like foliage, which transitions from green to a golden hue in the autumn. The plant's adaptability allows it to thrive in various conditions, including both sun and shade, making it a versatile choice for diverse landscape settings. Additionally, the dried seed heads are often utilized in floral arrangements, extending their appeal beyond the growing season.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Bird Gardens · Waterwise Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Bleeding hearts · Catmint · Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.
