Ornamental Grasses: Adding Texture and Movement to Your Landscape

Fountaingrass (Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln')

Fuzzy, foxtail-like spikes rise above dark-green foliage on this dwarf fountaingrass, creating a fountain of texture. The sun-loving clumps reach 2 to 3 feet tall, and their bristly flower heads catch morning dew, sparkling like tiny jewels. Perfect for borders or containers, 'Hameln' adds movement and structure from summer into fall.

Feathergrass (Stipa tenuissima)

Baby-soft, blonde spikes of this Southwestern native bring the grace of the Great Plains to naturalized plantings. Growing 2½ feet tall in full sun, feathergrass pairs beautifully with drought-tolerant companions like violet speedwell and pink sundrops. Its airy texture softens hardscapes and sways with the slightest breeze.

Variegated Ribbongrass (Phalaris arundinacea 'Picta')

A classic choice for generations, this native ribbongrass features striking green-and-white striped leaves that brighten shady spots. It thrives in part shade but may look tired by midsummer; simply shear it back to encourage a fresh flush of foliage. Note: In some regions, ribbongrass can spread aggressively—check with your local extension office before planting.

'Morning Light' Miscanthus (Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light')

Fine, white-edged blades create a silvery veil over companion plants like pink sedums and lavender Russian sage. This clumping Japanese silvergrass is beginner-friendly and adaptable; its feathery plumes can be harvested fresh or dried for arrangements. It adds year-round structure, turning golden in autumn.

Tufted Hairgrass (Deschampsia flexuosa)

Airy bronze plumes hover above fine, green foliage, illuminating woodland paths. Preferring part sun, tufted hairgrass excels in shady niches alongside hostas, ferns, and bleeding hearts. Like most clump-forming grasses, divide it when the center becomes bare to maintain vigor.

Variegated Purple Moorgrass (Molinia caerulea 'Variegata')

Striped foliage and purple-tinged flower heads give this moorgrass a wild, prairie-like charm. Winter-hardy and tolerant of root competition from trees and shrubs, it thrives in full sun. Use it to introduce a touch of untamed elegance to refined garden beds.

Reining in Running Grasses

Clump-forming grasses stay put, but running types—such as banner grass, European dune grass, giant reed, and ribbon grass—can invade small beds. Here’s how to contain them:

1. Plant in a bottomless pot. At planting time, use a 2-gallon nursery container with the bottom removed. This restricts lateral root spread while allowing drainage.

2. Set the pot at soil level. Dig a hole to accommodate the pot so its rim sits at ground level. Water the hole, place the pot, and backfill.

3. Plant and water deeply. Position the grass in the pot at its original depth, firm soil around it, and water thoroughly. The container barrier keeps roots in check for years.

Related: Grasses for Every Need

How to Divide Ornamental Grasses

Divide clump-forming grasses in early spring before new growth emerges. Dig up the clump, split it into sections with a sharp spade or knife, ensuring each piece has roots and shoots. Replant immediately and water well.