Northern sea oats (Chasmanthium latifolium) kaz-MAN-thee-um lat-ih-FOE-lee-um Synonyms:  Uniolia latifolia Genus:  Chasmanthium Northern sea oats is a loosely tufted, clump-forming grass with lance-shaped, arching mid-green foliage that turns yellow in winter. Summer brings highly decorative oat-like panicles of flat, green flowerheads that shimmer and rustle in the wind, aging to bronze by late summer. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Dried spikelets are great for arrangements. Cut before they are fully mature. Care:  This native to the eastern U.S. and northern Mexico is easy to grow in full sun or shade, in fertile, well-drained soil with ample moisture. Cut down in late winter. Drought tolerant once established. Propagation:  Easy to start from seed. Divide between midspring and early summer. Problems:  Usually trouble-free.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Native, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage, Showy Seed Heads Bloom Time Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Brown, Green Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Naturalizing Style Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant Type Grasses