Mostly Texas Natives Nursery -- Inland Sea Oats

Inland Sea Oats

This ornamental grass is good for filling in patches of shade where ordinary grass or other plants won't grow. This perennial has large, drooping flower heads that resemble oats, hanging from slender, arching branches. It can handle almost any soil, though make sure the soil is well-drained so that its roots don't stay wet. The plant remains attractive through most of the winter; when it starts looking ragged, cut back to within a few inches of the ground.  The seed heads sway in the wind, and the leaves turn golden in autumn. If you don't want new plants, cut off the seed heads in late summer. The seed stalks are attractive in floral arrangements. -- Rick R.

3-6' tall x 2-4' wide         Shade, P/shade      Zone 5         native