{"title":"Carex, Rush, and Grass","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn introductory essay will be coming soon. Meanwhile, no need to wait for me to extoll their virtues. Get some of these under-appreciated beauties into your garden now. And don't tell me your garden is full. If you mulch your garden, you have plenty of room for a Carex species, or two, or three.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"anthoxanthum-nitens","title":"Anthoxanthum nitens - Vanilla Sweet Grass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eHPP quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezone 3-7, 12-24\"+ (will spread up to 2 feet per year), full to part sun, the blooms are tiny-greenish white ripening to tan, blooms in late spring-early summer, needs consistent moisture to wet conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSynonym: \u003c\/b\u003eHierochloe odorata\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eVanilla Sweet Grass, Manna Grass, Mary's Grass, Vanilla Grass, Sweet Grass, Holy Grass (UK), Bison Grass (Poland), Northern Sweet Grass, Hair of Mother Earth\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eNorth America, Northern Eurasia, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eSalt marsh, brackish water, fens, damp meadows and fields, wet edges, swamps, moist swales. In marshes, \u003cem\u003eA. nitens\u003c\/em\u003e is associated with \u003cem\u003eJuncus balticus \u003c\/em\u003eand in dunes with \u003cem\u003eAmmophila breviligulata\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cem\u003eA. nitens \u003c\/em\u003ehas a rich and varied history of uses in numerous cultures up to the present day. According to Go Botany it is \"traditionally used by many Native American Tribes for medicinal purposes and for incense, perfume and in ceremonies.\" This grass is also an important basketry material. It has been used as a flavoring in distilled beverages, candy, tobacco, and soft drinks. Northern Europeans used it as a strewing herb. Spreads by rhizome and is a very strong grower if happy. In order to preserve the sweet vanilla scent at its most potent, harvest prior to the first frost. The coumarin in the plant is responsible for the vanilla scent and may also deter grazing. Coumarin is also considered potentially carcinogenic. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642278285619,"sku":"","price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/475_Hierochloe_odorata.jpg?v=1745181273"},{"product_id":"carex-appalachica","title":"Carex appalachica - Appalachian Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP 1 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-8, 8-12\" x 12\", part to full shade, but with consistent moisture can do well in a sunnier spot, tiny and subtle green flower in mid-spring, in shade it is very drought tolerant, wants good drainage\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/b\u003e Appalachian Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily:\u003c\/b\u003e Cyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/b\u003e eastern North America, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/b\u003e Occurs in dry, temperate forest - both deciduous and mixed deciduous\/evergreen, rocky, open woods, rock outcrops, woodland slopes, sometimes associated with hemlocks and in high, dry areas with maple, oak or beech.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore:\u003c\/b\u003e Larval host for various skipper and satyr butterfly species. Sedges are excellent cover and habitat for numerous invertebrates, small mammals and ground-nesting birds. C. appalachia is deer, rabbit, and juglone resistant. It has a formal look and is good for ground cover under shrubs and deciduous trees. Cut back in late winter prior to the onset of new growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhoto credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642595250483,"sku":"","price":9.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Carex_appalachica_-_Brooklyn_Botanic_Garden_-_Brooklyn__NY_-_DSC07918.jpg?v=1745231617"},{"product_id":"carex-plantaginea","title":"Carex plantaginea - Seersucker Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Sizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003e2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-8, 6-12\" x 12-24\", part to full shade, bright light green, quilted leaves, prefers moist woodland soils, but quite drought tolerant once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eSeersucker Sedge, Plantain-leaved Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eCyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003enative to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eopen woodland\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eAlthough Carex species are generally deer and rabbit resistant, I have noticed that this one gets munched in the winter. Since it is an evergreen sedge and the herbivory happens under snow cover, I am thinking voles. But no worry, it bounces back just fine. This sedge has a formal look and works very well in a tailored garden. More information coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part, they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642613993779,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankCarexPlantaginea.jpg?v=1745442433"},{"product_id":"schizachyrium-scoparium","title":"Schizachyrium scoparium - Little Bluestem","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plug, 6.00 each or 10 for 48.00, mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-9, 18-30\" x 18-24\", full sun, the slender flower spikes emerges with a slight purple tinge that matures to tan in late fall and look beautiful en masse, the foliage is blue-green into fall and shifts from warm orange-bronze to tan as the plant senesces. Likes lean soil and is drought tolerant once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eLittle Bluestem\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003ealmost every contiguous state in the U.S. plus northern Mexico, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003esunny areas with dry, well-drained, lean soil: woodland edge, hillside, slope, prairie, plain, meadow, pasture, savanna, upland. In its natural habitats, it is often found growing with \u003cem\u003eAndropogon gerardii\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eSorghastrum nutans\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003ePanicum virgatum \u003c\/em\u003eas part of the tall grass prairie ecology. All of these grasses are also native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eA warm season grass and therefore slow to wake up.\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003eSmall birds and mammals will enjoy the seeds. Provides nesting material as well as over-wintering habitat. Female bumblebees nest at the base of bunch grasses such as Little Bluestem. It is the larval host for numerous Skipper species including the Indian Skipper, \u003cem\u003eHesperia sassacus\u003c\/em\u003e, and the Crossline Skipper, \u003cem\u003ePolites origenes\u003c\/em\u003e which are both native to Maine. Numerous other insects feed on it, too. The Perennial Plant Association chose this grass as its perennial plant of the year in 2022. This is an excellent ingredient for a summer into fall container planting. Has been used medicinally. The fibers have been processed and used as an insulating liner in footwear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs from New Moon, grown on at Honey Petal Plants or Van Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eWikimedia Commons (image taken at the Coastal Maine Botanical Garden); Frank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644221198643,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Schizachyrium_scoparium_-_Coastal_Maine_Botanical_Gardens_-_DSC03064.jpg?v=1745275976"},{"product_id":"carex-rosea","title":"Carex rosea - Rosy Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eHPP quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics:\u003c\/b\u003e zones 3-9, 12\" x 12\", part sun to full shade, the bloom is a very cute, green, star-like spikelet in mid to late spring, medium wet to dry soils, but drought tolerant especially in shade. In brighter light it will not fare well unless the soil is consistently moist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eRosy Sedge, Curly-styled Wood Sedge, Golden Star Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily:\u003c\/b\u003e Cyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/b\u003e central and eastern North America, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/b\u003e C. rosea's happy places are bright shade or part sun at a woodland edge, bottomland, shoreline of ponds or streams, and dry to moist deciduous woods, under oaks in particular.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cover for small mammals, amphibians, and ground-nesting birds. Sedges offer lovely grass-like textures in a matrix with other low-growing shade perennials and are deer and rabbit tolerant. Cut back in late winter before new growth begins. Carex rosea is closely related to Carex radiata and both often grow in association with oaks. Although Carex rosea is more often found on drier sites with Quercus alba, Q. rubra, or Q. macrocarpa and Carex radiata favors wetter sites and Quercus bicolor, they are also often found growing together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit tolerant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plugs from North Creek, grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e Frank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50779621949747,"sku":"","price":9.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankCarexRosea.jpg?v=1745442912"},{"product_id":"carex-albicans","title":"Carex albicans - Whitetinge Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plug, 6.00 each or 10 for 48.00, mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 4-8, 1-1.5' x 1-1.5', part to full shade, tiny blooms in mid-late spring, likes medium to dry soils, not picky as to soil type, very adaptable and drought tolerant once established\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eWhitetinge Sedge, White-tinged Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003eCyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distrubution: \u003c\/strong\u003eeastern North America from Quebec and Ontario south to Florida and Texas. Native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003edry woodlands and forests, shady ledges, partially shaded ridge tops, can be found in association with oak, maple, or beech\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carex albican's fruits are disbursed by ants. Sedge species provided cover, habitat, and shade to invertebrates, small mammals, and ground-nesting birds. They are unbeatable ground cover in almost any garden setting and are deer and rabbit resistant. The Mt Cuba sedge trials gave C. albicans high points for its \"flowy tussocks\". Cut back in early spring, not an aggressive seeder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plugs from New Moon, grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51327637258547,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Carex_albicans__2x3_1fdbf9da-efbb-4218-8ef4-312a4db7a340.jpg?v=1745231415"},{"product_id":"andropogon-gerardii","title":"Andropogon gerardii - Big Bluestem","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP #1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 3-9, 4-8' x 1.5-2', full sun, leaf and stem color changes to a deep, bronzy-red after frost, adaptable to dry soil after it has established a good root system, can tolerate periodic flooding, prefers a leaner soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Big Blue Stem, Turkeyfoot Grass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e Quebec and Maine to Saskatchewan and eastern Montana, southeast to Florida, west to Arizona and south to Mexico and Costa Rica. Present in 44 states and native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003esignificant component of moist grasslands and most at home in the central plains states\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eA. gerardii \u003c\/em\u003ealong with \u003cem\u003eSchizachyrium scoparium\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eSorghastrum nutans\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003ePanicum virgatum \u003c\/em\u003ecomprise the Big Four. These are the main components of the grassland prairies in middle North America, but are also all native to Maine. According to The Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center, this is a good choice for native forage. It is very palatable to livestock and has been called \"ice cream for cows\". This can create problems with over-grazing as it has adapted to the migratory patterns of bison, once its main herbivore, therefore proper rotational management of livestock is required. This is a warm season grass and is slow to get started in the spring. Overly fertile or shady sites, or sites that stay too wet will cause rank growth and flopping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eGround-nesting birds use this grass for both cover and nesting and many creatures enjoy the seeds. Try the turkey foot-shaped blooms in your wildflower bouquets. It also provides nesting material and structure for native bees. Has been used medicinally and harvested for fiber by humans. The Delaware Skipper, \u003cem\u003eAnatrytone logan\u003c\/em\u003e, which has been moving further north in Maine, uses Big Bluestem as a larval host. The Dusted Skipper, \u003cem\u003eAtrytonopsis hianna\u003c\/em\u003e, also uses it as a larval host. Present in southern Maine, this is a priority 3 species of greatest conservation need (SGCN) due to the loss of habitat for \u003cem\u003eA. gerardii\u003c\/em\u003e. It would be really excellent to stop power companies from spraying power line right of ways with toxic chemicals. These could be rich habitats with different management techniques and still ensure a safe and uninterrupted power supply (solar array fields are another opportunity). Just sayin'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plugs from New Moon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003e1st image: Wikimedia Commons, looking a bit lax but still quite attractive in a somewhat shady spot; 2nd image: from USFWS Mountain Prairie via Creative Commons through the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, the inflorescence clearly illustrating why Turkeyfoot Grass is a common name\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51378645827891,"sku":"","price":14.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Andropogon_gerardii_-_Botanical_Garden__University_of_Frankfurt_-_DSC02537.jpg?v=1745179917"},{"product_id":"andropogon-gerardii-blackhawks","title":"Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks' - Big Bluestem cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e #1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-9, 4-5' x 1.5-2', full sun, The blooms are a purply, brownish-red and emerge on stalks held above the foliage in late summer to early fall, this grass has dark green foliage in the spring that turns almost black as the temperature drops, likes moist to dry well-drained soil, is drought tolerant once established and not picky as to pH.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Big Bluestem, Turkeyfoot Grass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is a cultivar of Big Blue Stem, Andropogon gerardii, discovered as a seedling from A. gerardii 'Red October' and developed by Brent Horvath of Intrinsic Perennials. The species is native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe species was a main component of midwestern tall grass prairies. Full sun in fields, prairies, or meadows are it's happy places. Big Bluestem  will grow in less sunny spots, but its characteristics will change. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe early foliage of 'Blackhawks' is deep green with purple undertones and turns darker as the season cools. Very handsome once it gets going. Deer and juglone tolerant. Works well in larger borders and containers, or as erosion control. I am going to try adding it to floral arrangements. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Van Berkum and New Moon (depending on size)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e New Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51378646614323,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Andropogon-Blackhawks-007-3.jpg?v=1765203760"},{"product_id":"carex-laxiculmis","title":"Carex laxiculmis - Spreading Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plug, 6.00 each or 10 for 48.00, mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 4-9, 6-12\" x 12\", part to full shade, small flower spikes in late spring, the blade-like, arching leaves have a blue-green cast, likes moist woodland soils on the alkaline side, but I think its pretty adaptable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Spreading Sedge, Creeping Sedge, Glaucous Woodland Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e In the U.S the range is from Maine to Florida and West to Minnesota and Arkansas. It is also native to Ontario and Quebec. Native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003emoist woods and woodland edge, stream banks, swamp margins. According to Go Botany this sedge is characteristic of evergreen and mixed deciduous forests in New England and is often found near seeps or at a stream edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e a gradual spreader through underground rhizomes, an attractive player in a woodland garden intermingled with ferns, Phlox divaricata 'May Breeze' and Heucheras like 'Dale's Strain' and 'Green Spice'. This one is particularly good for a more tailored setting. Sedges are excellent living ground cover and provide cool, moist shelter for numerous invertebrate species. Deer and rabbit resistant. Although this one occurs in natural habitats on the wetter side, I have found it does well in the shade with a moderate amount of moisture. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part, they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNursery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plugs from New Moon, grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51378650808627,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/IMG_1588.jpg?v=1759245386"},{"product_id":"danthonia-spicata","title":"Danthonia spicata - Poverty Oat Grass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP #1, 3 plants per pot\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 3-8, 12\" x 12-18\", full to part sun to part shade, tan blooms appear in late spring to early summer, likes lean, rocky, well-drained soil and is adaptable to quite a bit of shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoverty Oat Grass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e Quebec to British Columbia down into the mountains of Oregon, over to Minnesota and south to the mountains of New Mexico, into Arkansas, continuing south to north Florida, Louisiana, Texas and further south into central Mexico. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Occurs in open areas, thin woodlands, disturbed sites, open balds, fields, roadsides - present in a variety of forest and grassland situations like a guest every hostess wants at the party. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e Larval host for, among others, the Indian Skipper, \u003cem\u003eHesperia sassacus\u003c\/em\u003e, which is native to Maine. I first learned about this tough little charmer on a podcast about the native species lawn that was being developed at the Botanic Garden at Cornell University. It is a main component in that project. I have since added it to my gardens in various places and its affable adaptability never ceases to delight me. It has what has been aptly called a \"crowded tuft\" meaning that old leaves turn tan and curl up, but persist in the crown and act like a baroque frame for the new growth coming through. This is a pioneer species and therefore long-lived in seed banks. Excellent mass planted on a green roof, on a slope for erosion control, or as used at Cornell. However, because it can take some shade, I have been popping it in various open spots in my shadier gardens to see what happens. I will keep you posted. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs from New Moon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51378662310195,"sku":"","price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Danthonia_spicata_HC-1950.png?v=1745233870"},{"product_id":"eragrostis-spectabilis","title":"Eragrostis spectabilis - Purple Love Grass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plug, 6.00 each or 10 for 48.00, mix and match okay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 5-9, 8\" - 2' (in bloom) x 1-2', full sun, in late summer the blooming inflorescence turns purple creating a lovely haze when grown en masse. This haze matures to tan later in the season. Prefers dry to medium moisture, tolerates lean soil, can adapt to wetter soils as long as they are very well-drained.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003ePurple Love Grass, Tumblegrass, Petticoat Climber (cheeky thing!)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e eastern and central North America from Maine west to South Dakota, south to Florida, Arizona, and into Mexico\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003esandy soils, disturbed and gravelly areas, railroad edges, dry grasslands, open woods, roadsides \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eLate in the summer or early fall while driving around Maine watch for this plant blooming in large swathes along the most inhospitable road edges imaginable. It looks gorgeous and you may drive off the road while admiring it, so be careful! It is juglone and salt tolerant, small mammals and song birds eat the seeds, and it is good winter nesting material and cover. Good for a sunny problem area with dry soils where other plants don't want to grow. Has rock garden potential but may self sow too much, can be used as a lawn alternative or attractive ground cover planting framing taller perennials and providing a breathtaking finish to the season. The fresh and dried blooms are airy texture for small posies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs from New Moon, grown on by Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51378667520307,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Eragrostis_spectabilis_-_Botanischer_Garten_der_Universitat_Wurzburg.jpg?v=1745239028"},{"product_id":"luzula-acuminiata","title":"Luzula acuminata - Hairy Woodrush","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs, 6.00 ea or 10 for 48.00, mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 3-8, 4-12\" x 18-24\", part sun to full shade, subtle, yellowish-green bloom in mid to late spring, the blooms and seed heads are charming and a bit chaotic, prefers some moisture and richness, but very adaptable as to soil type and drought tolerant in shade. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eHairy Woodrush\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e Occurs in southern Canada and the central and eastern United Staes. Luzula acuminiata is native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003ewooded slopes, forest clearings, medium (mesic) to dry soils, part of the forest understory in mixed deciduous woodlands\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is an excellent and underused cool season rush that works well as part of a shady, low-growing matrix. It is pretty adorable, if chaotic, in bloom. I think it has ground cover (living mulch) potential as well. So far, it has been very adaptable and accommodating in the test gardens here at Honey Petal Plants. Deer resistant. Should seed in well if happy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plugs from New Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants: See, charming and a bit chaotic, like it just woke up and can't find its glasses\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51378686525747,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/AMBLuzulaSeed.jpg?v=1747733107"},{"product_id":"festuca-glauca-elijah-blue","title":"Festuca glauca 'Elijah Blue' - Blue Fescue cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 3-8, 8-10\" x 18\", full sun, wants well-drained soil, drought tolerant once established. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blue Fescue, Sheep Fescue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a cultivar of \u003cem\u003eFestuca ovina\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eAdds a different texture, shape, and color to the sunny rock garden and is a potential ground cover for open, sunny, well-drained spots. Makes compact, symmetrical bun which lends formality. Looks good with Dianthus species and continues to look good throughout the fall. Grasses offer potential winter shelter to small mammals. Voles may nest in this grass under the snow. It bounces back just fine. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit:\u003c\/strong\u003e illustration of Blue Fescue from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51382602400051,"sku":"","price":15.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-384_Festuca_ovina_L.__F._duriuscula_L.jpg?v=1745238826"},{"product_id":"panicum-virgatum","title":"Panicum virgatum - Switchgrass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plug, 6.00 each or 10 for 48.00 mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 3-9, 24-36\" x 24\", full sun to part sun, hazy, pale pink clouds of tiny flowers held high above the foliage late summer into fall, turning a gold-brown, along with the foliage, as the season cools, tolerant as to soil type and various levels of moisture from medium-wet to dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eSwitchgrass, Wand Panic Grass, Wobsqua Grass, Blackbent, Wild Redtop, Tall Prairiegrass, Virginia Switchgrass \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is a classic dominant species of the Tall Grass Prairie, widely distributed across North America. It is found on remnant prairies, pastures, and roadsides, and is native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e stream banks, open woods, dry or moist grasslands\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a warm season grass, which means it is slow to awaken in spring and does it's most active growing during the warm summer months. Ground-feeding songbirds and game birds will eat the seeds as will small mammals. Grasses are excellent cover for numerous species in both summer and winter. The dried stalks are beautiful in the later seasons. Will self sow if happy, good for a large meadow-type planting or in a large meadow-type bouquet, Larval host for (among others) the Tawny-edged Skipper, \u003cem\u003ePolites themistocles\u003c\/em\u003e, the Delaware Skipper, \u003cem\u003eAnatrytone logan\u003c\/em\u003e, and the Hobomok Skipper, \u003cem style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eLon hobomok\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e, all native to Maine. Deer resistant.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Wikipedia, this grass is used \"for soil conservation, forage production, game cover, as an ornamental grass, in phytoremediation projects, fiber, electricity, heat production, for biosequestration of atmospheric carbon dioxide, and more recently as a biomass crop for the production of ethanol and butanol.\" All subjects worthy a deeper dive and the comprehensive Wikipedia entry will get you started.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs from New Moon, grown on by Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Forest and Kim Starr via Creative Commons as found on North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, also Jelitto Staudensamen GmbH\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51412129644851,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/NCEXTPanicumVirgForestandKimStarr.jpg?v=1747582226"},{"product_id":"elymus-hystrix","title":"Elymus hystrix - Bottlebrush Grass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP #1, 2 plants per pot\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-8, 3' x 12-18\", part sun to part shade, summer bloom in a delicate bottlebrush silhouette, likes medium to medium\/dry soils, is drought tolerant once established and is not picky as to soil type. Does not do well in full shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSynonym: \u003c\/strong\u003eHystrix patula\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bottlebrush Grass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eeastern and central U.S. and eastern Canada, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003edry, open woodlands, also forest edges, and rocky and damp partial shade\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eElymus hystrix\u003c\/em\u003e is the larval host for the Northern Pearly Eye, \u003cem\u003eEnodia anthedon\u003c\/em\u003e,  which is native to Maine. Small mammals and birds eat the seeds. It is juglone tolerant and deer resistant. A lovely taller texture for a woodland setting, especially backlit, the attractive seedheads make a nice addition to a bouquet, will self-sow if happy, may go dormant in very hot summers. There is a very interesting entry in Wikipedia about exploring \u003cem\u003eE. hystrix\u003c\/em\u003e as livestock fodder, or, if domesticated through breeding for enlarged seed heads and nutritional value, a grain for human consumption. Fun fact: Spellcheck likes to correct Elymus hystrix to Olympus hysteria, every...single...time...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs from New Moon, grown on by Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003eKathleen Moore through Creative Commons via North Carolina Extension Gardeners Plant Toolbox\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51412237254963,"sku":"","price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Elymus_20hystrix_20seed_20heads_20Elymus_20hystrix_20seed_20heads_20Kathleen_20Moore_20CC_20BY_202.0.jpg?v=1747155948"},{"product_id":"chasmanthium-latifolium","title":"Chasmanthium latifolium - Northern Sea Oats","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plug, 6.00 each or 10 for 48.00 mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 4-9, 24-36\" x 24\", full sun to light shade, seeds are green with a purple cast turning to tan on an arching stem in late summer\/early fall, prefers moist, but well-drained soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Northern Sea Oats, River Oats, Inland Sea Oats\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eEastern U.S. native, but not native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003ewaterbody edges, low, moist areas of dappled woodland \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a really good-looking grass that is salt tolerant and a good bouquet addition either fresh or dried. It can be a strong self-seeder in the right conditions. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs from North Creek Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51453028532531,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Chasmanthium_latifolium_Boyle_Park.jpg?v=1747153599"},{"product_id":"hackonechloa-macra","title":"Hakonechloa macra - Japanese Forest Grass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003e2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 5-9, 12-18\" x 24\", part sun to part shade, cascading light, grassy green foliage, (current image is probably 'All Gold', this will be grassier green) which turns orange and then tan as the weather cools, can tolerate quite a bit of shade, flowers in mid to late summer, but the subtle sprays of flowers are usually hidden by the foliage, likes moist woodland soils and definitely needs consistent moisture in higher light conditions. Does not like dry, poorly drained, or heavy clay soils. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eHakone Grass, Japanese Forest Grass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003ecentral Japan\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003edamp woods and mountainous regions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eLovely texture for the shady parts of the  garden, especially on slopes or by steps that show its waterfall-like growth habit off to best effect. Try popping a few stems into a flower arrangement, either fresh or dry. Slow to get going in the spring and slow to mature. I am pretty sure the plant pictured is a cultivar, but it gives you a good sense of the form. H. macra is the straight species and will be greener.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003eLucy Bradley through Creative Commons via North Carolina Extension Gardeners Plant Toolbox\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51453031055667,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/NCEXTHakoneGrassLucyBradley.jpg?v=1747650935"},{"product_id":"hackonechloa-macra-all-gold","title":"Hakonechloa macra 'All Gold' - Japanese Forest Grass cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 5-9, 12-18\" x 24\", part sun to part shade, cascading very pale yellow green to almost yellow which turns orange and then tan as the weather cools, can tolerate quite a bit of shade, flowers in mid to late summer, but the subtle sprays of flowers are usually hidden by the foliage, likes moist woodland soils and definitely needs consistent moisture in higher light conditions. Does not like dry, poorly drained, or heavy clay soils. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eHakone Grass, Japanese Forest Grass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003ecentral Japan\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003edamp woods and mountainous regions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eLovely texture for the shady parts of the  garden, especially on slopes or by steps that show its waterfall-like growth habit off to best effect. The cultivar 'All Gold' creates a lot of light in a shady spot. It really glows. Slow to get going in the spring and slow to mature. I am pretty sure the plant pictured is a cultivar such as 'All Gold' and it gives you a good sense of the form. The straight species, which I also offer, is more of a grassy green. A grassy addition to bouquets. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants, young plants on the nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51453032005939,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/AMBHakALLGold.jpg?v=1747871084"},{"product_id":"sorghastrum-nutans","title":"Sorghastrum nutans - Indian Grass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plug, 6.00 each or 10 for 48.00, mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-9, 5-7' x 1-2', full sun, significant bloom in late summer over blue-green foliage, the seed heads turns a bronzy-brown in autumn as the foliage shifts to tan. Likes dry to medium moisture, tolerant of most soils including clay. Will flop over in soils that are too rich. It can take occasional flooding and is also drought tolerant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Indian Grass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eUncommon in New England, but native to the region, occurs from Quebec and Maine to Manitoba, south to Florida and Arizona, then further south to Chiapas in southern Mexico. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003efields, open woods, dry slope, tall grass prairies. I imagine that it's habitat preferences are why it is more prevalent in the midwest and south.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a warm season grass and it is deer resistant and juglone tolerant. It offers year round cover for small mammals and attractive winter structure. The seeds are eaten by birds and mammals and it is a nesting habitat for upland game birds. The leaves are fed on by grasshoppers and caterpillars including the Pepper and Salt Skipper, \u003cem\u003eAmblyscirtes hegon\u003c\/em\u003e, which is native to Maine. The fresh and dried seed heads are good in flower arrangements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e New England Wetland Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e Jelitto Staudensamen GmbH; illustration from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51453167141171,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/JelittoSorghastNutans.jpg?v=1747583544"},{"product_id":"carex-sprengelii","title":"Carex sprengelii - Long-beaked Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes Available:\u003c\/strong\u003e HPP #1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 3-5, 2' x 10-12\", part to full shade, bouncy \"spikelets\" on thin, arching stems in mid to late spring, likes medium-wet to medium-dry soils that are well-drained\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eLong-beaked Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eMore information coming soon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e close up of seed heads via Wikipedia; plant in situ via Minnesota Wildflowers; plant back lit via Prairie Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51546748027187,"sku":"","price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Carex_sprengelii__8162119443.jpg?v=1748260103"},{"product_id":"juncus-effusus","title":"Juncus effusus - Common Soft Rush","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 4-9, 2-4' x 2-4', full sun, yellowish green bloom in early to mid summer, often found in sand or peat, also clay tolerant, prefers moist to wet soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Common Soft Rush, Bog Rush, Mat Rush\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003eJuncaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e There are numerous subspecies of this plant and it has a wide native distribution occurring in parts of North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. It has also naturalized in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. According to Go Botany there are two subspecies of this rush in Maine. One is native and one is introduced. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e marshes, wet meadows and fields, wetland margins, along waterways, ponds, river and lake shore\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a handsome rush that provides nesting sites for waterfowl and sheltering habitat for numerous creatures. It can grow in standing water up to 4\" deep, but also performs well in a garden setting if the soil is not allowed to dry out. It will spread by rhizome and self-seeding. Spread can be controlled by containerizing the plant. This plant is a strong grower and is good for erosion control, large riparian areas, and containers. The stems are used by various cultures for tying and weaving for cordage, small bags, mats, baskets, and fish traps. Early growth has been used to feed cattle and horses. and has also been eaten by humans (earliest sprouts). In Europe, the pith of Juncus effusus used to be soaked in grease to create rushlights, inexpensive substitutes for candles. Has been used medicinally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51779121807667,"sku":null,"price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Velkebagno_Scirpuss.jpg?v=1752581450"},{"product_id":"dichanthelium-clandestinum","title":"Dichanthelium clandestinum - Deer-tongue Rosette-panicgrass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP #1, 2-3 plants per pot\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 4-9,\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e1-3' tall, part sun (more sun is ok in wetter soils) to dappled shade, can persist in quite a bit of shade, blooms in late spring and intermittently into fall, prefers consistent moisture, but well-drained soil, is somewhat drought tolerant once established, tolerates acid, high aluminum content, and\/or infertile soils. As you can sense from this description, it is very adaptable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eDeer-tongue Rosette-panicgrass, Deer-tongue Switchgrass, Witch Grass, Deertongue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e eastern to central United Sates as well as northern and eastern Canada, introduced in Myanmar, native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eshady, moist woodland, ditches, roadsides and other disturbed habitats, sandy but moist soils, lake and riverside, field, meadow\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is an ornamental, warm-season, native grass that if happy, will spread by rhizome to form a strong-growing colony. Useful for reclaiming degraded ground. Grows well with switch grasses such as \u003cem\u003ePanicum virgatum\u003c\/em\u003e. The seeds are an excellent food source for turkeys, sparrows, and other granivorous birds. Provides shelter for small mammals, salamanders, toads, beetles, etc. Very attractive and low maintenance. It looks a bit like a low-growing bamboo. Because of its potentially robust growth habit, appropriate site selection is key. Ground cover potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource \u003c\/strong\u003egrown from seed by Honey Petal Plants, seed from Toadshade Wildflower Farm and Hayefield Seeds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51916578980147,"sku":null,"price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Dichanthelium_clandestinum_1.jpg?v=1755374598"},{"product_id":"hordeum-jubatum","title":"Hordeum jubatum - Fox-tail Barley","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP #1, 3 plants per pot\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-10, 12-24\" x 12\", full sun, early summer bloom is a jaunty golden-green tuft sometimes with pink overtones, likes well-drained soils medium to dry, but can grow with more consistent moisture, not picky as to soil type.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eFox-tail Barley, Squirreltail Grass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eOccurs in 45 of the lower 48 states and is native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eroadside, coastal beach, salt marsh edge, gravelly places, waste places, open ground\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a short-lived perennial, cool season grass that will probably self-sow. Its tufted blooms on sturdy stems are an excellent bouquet addition. It is very pretty in the front of a sunny border waving in the wind. Salt tolerant and adaptable, it can grow in numerous conditions. Is a larval host and grasshoppers also enjoy the leaves. I think this might be good combined with Purple Love Grass in a matrix planting. The \u003cem\u003eHordeum jubatum \u003c\/em\u003eblooms earlier and the \u003cem\u003eEragrostis spectabilis\u003c\/em\u003e blooms later and they both like similar conditions. Add some \u003cem\u003eEchinacea pallida\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eRudbeckia triloba\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eSolidago nemoralis \u003c\/em\u003eto complete the scene. Under plant with (non-native) spring-blooming bulbs such as species tulips and you have a masterpiece. Has been used medicinally. The seeds can be processed (pounded) and eaten raw.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003egrown from seed by Honey Petal Plants, seed from Hayefield Seeds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51916599460147,"sku":null,"price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Hordeum_jubatum_plant__11.jpg?v=1755374786"},{"product_id":"elymus-canadensis","title":"Elymus canadensis - Canada Wild Rye","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e HPP #1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-9, 2.5-5' x 2-3', full sun to part sun (maybe part shade), early to late summer bloom, \"bristly awns\" are at first green maturing to tan, likes a well-drained but moist site, but is drought tolerant once established, rocky and sandy soils are ok, associated with limestone, but will grow in acidic soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Canada Wild Rye, Prairie Wildrye, Nodding Wildrye\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e This grass is in all the lower 48 states except Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. It also occurs down into northern Mexico and up into Canada from Quebec to British Columbia. It is more common in the northern parts of its range and at higher altitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e open woodland, savanna, dune, prairie, edges, ditches, fencerows, ravines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is a cool season, perennial bunch grass. It is a symbiotic host to a constellation of endophytic fungi. A beautiful grass in floral arrangements, fresh or dried, where it offers the same aesthetic qualities as it does in the landscape - texture and grace of movement. Fast growing grasses such as this one make excellent nurse crops to hold soil while other slower-growing perennials get established. Its young growth is nutritious, early-season forage, but once the sharp seed heads develop, livestock tend to avoid grazing it. The seeds are enjoyed by granivorous birds and small mammals and have been used by humans as a cereal grain and in flour. Bunch grasses like this provide good cover and habitat for numerous creatures including ground-nesting birds. Leafhoppers, leaf beetles, aphids, and leaf-miner moth caterpillars feed on \u003cem\u003eElymus canadensis\u003c\/em\u003e. The seed heads of some grasses can be quite sharp and around eye height, so some gardeners don't plant them where small children and dogs tend to romp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more:\u003c\/strong\u003e Grasses are important habitat for native bees who use them for nesting material as well as hibernation and nursery structures. Do not cut your grasses all the way to the ground. If you must, cut back to about knee height and leave the old stems in the clump permanently. The new growth will cover them over in no time and they will eventually rot away. Many bees have a lifecycle longer than one year and need dependable, consistent habitat to complete their journey. This cutting regime is applicable to other perennials with hollow stems, as well: cut back to knee height. It will look as intentional as cutting lower, but offer much richer habitat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eseed grown at Honey Petal Plants, seed from Hayefield Seed\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e Matt Lavin from Creative Commons via North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52118738960691,"sku":null,"price":14.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Form_20Form_20Matt_20Lavin_20CC-BY-SA_202.0.jpg?v=1755598461"},{"product_id":"bromus-latigulmis","title":"Bromus latigulmis - Flanged Brome","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP #1 (two plants per pot)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-7, 2.5-4' x 18\", part sun to part shade, dangly, green blooms on delicate, arching, branched structures in late summer to early fall. Prefers it consistently moist in the sunniest positions, but is adaptable to drier conditions in more shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eFlanged Brome, Early Leaf Brome, Hairy Woodbine, Ear-leaved Brome, Broad-glumed Brome\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eLarge swathes of Canada and north-central to northeastern United States as far west as Montana and as far south as South Carolina, native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003ewoodland, prairie, river bank, shorelines, riparian forest, meadow, field, moist and open spots, railroad beds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a clump-forming, perennial, cool season grass. It adds texture, grace, and movement in the garden as well as the vase. It provides habitat and nesting sites for birds and small mammals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrasses are important habitat for native bees who use them for nesting material as well as for hibernation and nursery structures. Do not cut your grasses all the way to the ground. If you must, cut back to about knee height and leave the old stems in the clump permanently. The new growth will cover them over in no time and they will eventually rot away. Many bees have a lifecycle longer than one year and need dependable, consistent habitat to complete their journey. This cutting regime is applicable to other perennials with hollow stems, as well: cut back to knee height. It will look as intentional as cutting lower, but offer much richer habitat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e grown from seed at Honey Petal Plants, seed from Prairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003ePrairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52149658714419,"sku":null,"price":14.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Unknown-1_f8183cd3-c0b0-4999-9587-7e73a63cc878.jpg?v=1755604295"},{"product_id":"bromus-kalmii","title":"Bromus kalmii - Kalm's Brome","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e HPP #1, two plants per pot\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-6, 2-3' x 12\", full to part sun, the blooms (spikelets) look like flattened seed heads of wheat and start out slightly bluish-grey in mid to late summer and ripen to tan, this grass is very adaptable and is found in numerous habitats, sometimes on calcareous soils, sandy, or rocky, in both medium-wet to medium-dry conditions, drought tolerant once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kalm's Brome, Arctic Brome, Prairie Brome\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eFrom Maine to Minnesota and South Dakota, south to western Maryland and Iowa, in Canada from Quebec to Manitoba, native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eoften associated with Jack Pine, dry sandy and open woods, prairie, savanna, moist meadow, fen (calcareous), rocky banks\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a cool season, short-lived perennial grass that is very adaptable. It is a pretty grass and its shorter stature makes it appealing for an ornamental border. The seeded stems are an airy addition to bouquets, fresh or dried. Like all the wonderful native grasses we should be growing more of, it provides much needed shelter and habitat for small mammals and birds. They also enjoy the seeds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrasses are important habitat for native bees who use them for nesting material as well as for hibernation and nursery structures. Do not cut your grasses all the way to the ground. If you must, cut back to about knee height and leave the old stems in the clump permanently. The new growth will cover them over in no time and they will eventually rot away. Many bees have a lifecycle longer than one year and they need dependable, consistent habitat to complete their journey. This cutting regime is applicable to other perennials with hollow stems as well: cut back to knee height. It will look as intentional as cutting lower, but offer much richer habitat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eseed grown at Honey Petal Plants, seed from Prairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eDan Barron at Prairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52152192532787,"sku":null,"price":14.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Bromus-kalmii-Prairie-Brome_main.jpg?v=1755607111"},{"product_id":"bromus-ciliatus-fringed-brome","title":"Bromus ciliatus - Fringed Brome","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003e zones 3-8, 12\" x 2-4', part shade to sun, blooms late summer into fall, prefers consistent moisture but not picky about soil\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eFringed Brome\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e wide distribution across North America, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e floodplain, moist low spots, wet edges, lightly shaded woods in openings and edges\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eA cool season, clump-forming grass that provides habitat for numerous creatures. The attractive, nodding seed heads look lovely, both fresh or dried, in flower arrangements. Potential as a forage plant for cattle. Songbirds, ground-nesting birds, and small mammals also eat the seeds. Imagine this beautiful grass and its arching flower stalks swaying and rustling in the breeze. Good for rain gardens, bioswales, pond edges, containers, and woodland gardens with high, light shade and moisture-retentive soil. I love bromes. They are common and un-fussy and one of the many grasses and sedges I am going to continue to talk you into using in your garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e seed grown at Honey Petal Plants, seed from Prairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003ePrairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52464099230003,"sku":null,"price":8.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Bromus-ciliatus-fringed-brome-closeup_730x487_4e1e5a39-99fc-4075-bc63-e47cf5d5a8f1.jpg?v=1759243490"},{"product_id":"carex-crinita-var-crinita-fringed-sedge","title":"Carex crinita var. crinita - Fringed Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eTBD, coming in 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-8, 1-3' x 1-2', full sun to part shade, spikelets of green flowers in late spring to early summer turning brown when ripe, medium to wet soils, and much prefers consistent moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eFringed Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003eCyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eWide distribution in eastern North America. Native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eRiparian: stream, lake, pond, wetland edge, wet ditches, low damp spots\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a pretty sedge with attractive dangling spikelets that may work well in the vase, providing movement and texture. I will let you know. A cool season sedge that is deer resistant and although it is found in riparian environments, can do well in a garden, especially in some shade, as long as it does not dry out. Or, grow it as part of a container water garden. Good for erosion control on wet edges and will spread by rhizome. Can take occasional standing water. This sedge supports the Marsh Eyed Brown, S\u003cem\u003eatyrodes eurydice\u003c\/em\u003e, a butterfly native to Maine, as well as Skippers, \u003cem\u003ePoanes \u003c\/em\u003especies, and Sedge grasshoppers, \u003cem\u003eStethophyma\u003c\/em\u003e species, examples of which live in Maine as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003esown at Honey Petal Plants with seed from Toadshade Wildflower Farm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52713657008435,"sku":null,"price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Carex_crinita_10016313.jpg?v=1764697629"},{"product_id":"carex-lupulina-common-hop-sedge","title":"Carex lupulina - Common Hop Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eTBD, coming in 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-9, 18-36\" x 12-30\", full sun (if wet) to part shade, green spikelets in late spring, prefers consistent moisture to wet, occasional flooding okay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eCommon Hop Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003eCyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eWide distribution in eastern North America. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eriparian: marsh, bog, swamp, also moist woods and shady bottomland\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eAn attractive sedge for the side of a pond where it will provide food and cover for waterfowl and small mammals, as well as perches for dragonflies. Can also be grown in a rain garden or a container planted up as a mini bog. Good for bank stabilization and will spread by rhizome. Larval host for butterfly species in the Satyrinae and Nymphalidae families including the Marsh Eyed Brown, \u003cem\u003eSatyrodes eurydice\u003c\/em\u003e, which is native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003esown at Honey Petal Plants with seed from Prairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eboth images from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52713660350771,"sku":null,"price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Carex_lupulina_imported_from_iNaturalist_photo_19761587_on_4_April_2020.jpg?v=1764697891"},{"product_id":"carex-merritt-fernaldii-merritt-fernalds-sedge","title":"Carex merritt-fernaldii - Merritt Fernald's Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eTBD, coming in 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-7, 12-40\" x 18\", full sun to part shade, blooms late spring to early summer, ripened seed heads are attractive, likes dry, sandy, rocky, lean, acidic soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Merritt Fernald's Sedge, Fernald's Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e The majority of this sedge's range is in Canada, but it also occurs in all of New England and west into Wisconsin, northeastern Minnesota and Kansas. It is rare in Vermont and New York and a species of special concern in Wisconsin. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eOccurs on sandy lake banks, roadsides, outcrops, balds, slopes, cliffs, open and dry meadow or woods, and disturbed areas. Also found on draining peat bogs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e More coming soon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e sown at Honey Petal Plants with seed from Toadshade Wildflower Farm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eImage coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52713662578995,"sku":null,"price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/HoneyPetalPlaD14aR02cP02ZL-Harrison2c_gray_09c62dbb-a999-4c10-9243-e1eb7ad4a3af.jpg?v=1750070707"},{"product_id":"carex-typhina-common-cattail-sedge","title":"Carex typhina - Common Cattail Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e TBD, coming in 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 4-8, 1-4' x 18\", part shade to part sun, green miniature \"cattails\" bloom in early summer, prefers moist to wet soils\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Common Cattail Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003eCyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e This sedge has a wide range and occurs in 34 states as well as Ontario and Quebec. However, it is rare in many of these places most likely due to habitat loss. Many of our water-loving plants and mammals are challenged by human water management strategies. This plant is a species of special concern in Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Occurs in seasonally flooded areas in association with Silver Maple, \u003cem\u003eAcer saccharinum\u003c\/em\u003e, as well as in floodplain forests, low and poorly drained areas, and on swamp edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eMore information coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e sown at Honey Petal Plants with seed from Prairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e close up of flower: Wikimedia Commons; top view of plant: Prairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52713664676147,"sku":null,"price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Carex_typhina_NRCS-1__2x3_975c067f-c154-48a9-99a8-0bb961df4c70.jpg?v=1764764894"},{"product_id":"cinna-arundinacea-wool-reed-grass","title":"Cinna arundinacea - Sweet Wood-reed Grass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eTBD, coming in 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 4-7, 2-6' x 1-2', part sun to part shade, many flowered panicle blooms green in the late summer and matures to tan, needs consistent moisture in the sunniest spots, but can deal with some drying out, likes a nutritious soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sweet Wood-reed Grass, Wool Reed Grass, Stout Reed Grass, Common Wood Reed, Stout Woodreed\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003ePoaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis grass has a wide distribution in eastern and central North America. \"At risk\" in Massachusetts and Vermont. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Found in open, wet woodlands, shady ditches, wet edges, river and stream floodplains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lovely seeded for wildflower bouquets. More coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003esown at Honey Petal Plants with seed from Prairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52713671262515,"sku":null,"price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/cinna-arundiacea-wood-reed-grass_main.jpg?v=1764766509"},{"product_id":"glyceria-canadensis-rattlesnake-manna-grass","title":"Glyceria canadensis - Rattlesnake Manna Grass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e TBD, coming in 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-7, 2-3' (maybe taller), full to part sun, flowers green ripening to tan in a showy, cascading panicle in early to mid summer, absolutely requires water to grow well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rattlesnake Manna Grass, Rattlesnake Grass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eBritish Columbia west to Newfoundland south through all of New England down to North Carolina and west to Minnesota. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eFound in sunny swamps and bogs, grassy marshes, wet low open woods, wet edges: stream, river, pond, lake. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is an obligate wetland species. The seed head, either fresh or dried, is a beautiful, airy texture in a large arrangement. More information coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003esown at Honey Petal Plants with seed from Prairie Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e Botanical illustration and example of winter color from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52721852121395,"sku":null,"price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Glyceria_canadensis_HC-1950.png?v=1764854601"},{"product_id":"sporobolis-heterolepis-prairie-dropseed","title":"Sporobolus heterolepis - Prairie Dropseed","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e HPP #1, coming in 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-9, 24-36\" x 24\", full sun to part shade, airy, pink-tinted seedheads create a frothy presence that evolves to a bronzier tone in the late season. Grows in a medium moisture to dry, rocky, well-drained soil and is drought tolerant once established.and can also take seasonal inundation as long as it is brief. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prairie Dropseed, Northern Dropseed\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e Found from Saskatchewan south to Colorado, and east into Quebec and south to North Carolina, Kentucky, and east Texas. Although this grass is more common in the midwest, it is native to central Massachusetts and a small part of Connecticut. This plant is in decline in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Kentucky, and North Carolina (all of which are part of its native range).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Occurs in open, well-drained areas such as ledges, slopes, ridges, and balds. Also occurs in open woodland, on railroad beds, and in drier prairies. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is an attractive, clump-forming, warm season grass that is slow to wake up and takes awhile to get established. Cut it back in early spring prior to new growth. Looks great massed as a ground cover and its fibrous root system is good for holding soil on a sunny bank. I can imagine a vignette of this with Liatris, Echinacea, and Verbena bonariensis popping up in groups amongst it with some Allium 'Millennium' at the front edges and some tall sedums thrown in for contrast. Add an underplanting of spring bulbs and you have a beautiful planting with all-season \"interest\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt would also look spectacular as one component of an all grass border. When Prairie Dropseed occurs in its Great Plains habitat, it is found associated with Little and Big Bluestem, Switchgrass, and Indian grass, all of which are native to Maine and available at the nursery. Other companions in that midwest environment are Amorpha canescens, Phlox paniculata, and Ratibida pinnata and I usually offer these as well. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more:\u003c\/strong\u003e This grass is wind-pollinated, not a particularly prolific self-sower, and is juglone tolerant. Ground-foraging birds and small mammals will enjoy the seeds and the grassy clumps provide shelter for all manner of creatures in summer and winter. Seeds are fragrant when mature and the scent has been described as \"coriander, licorice, popcorn, or sunflower seeds\" according to Wisconsin Horticulture. This is a nutritious forage grass for livestock and the seeds have been ground to use as flour. The root has been used medicinally. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eyoung plants from Prairie Nursery grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e Image of form from Wikimedia Commons; image of inflorescence courtesy of Andrey Zharkikh via Creative Commons through the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52761505005875,"sku":null,"price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Sporobolus_heterolepis_-_Denver_Botanic_Gardens_-_DSC00886.jpg?v=1765221803"},{"product_id":"carex-bicknellii-bicknells-sedge","title":"Carex bicknellii - Bicknell's Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-7, 1.5-3' x 12-18\", full sun to light shade, yellowish-green flowers ripen to oval, coppery-brown seedheads, flowers in late spring to early summer, adaptable as to soil type, likes it medium wet to medium dry and has good drought tolerance. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eBicknell's Sedge, Copper-shouldered Oval Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e Manitoba and Ontario through all the New England states and into north-central U.S. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eUsually found on damp edges such as on rivers, lakes, and swamps, and low places in fields, meadows and open woods, but also occurs on uplands\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe full sun image from Wikimedia Commons does not do justice to this sedge and its possibilities for your garden. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003ePrairie Moon as 3\" plants, grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53006906360115,"sku":null,"price":11.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Carex_bicknellii_-_Botanischer_Garten_Munchen-Nymphenburg_-_DSC07847.jpg?v=1769785183"},{"product_id":"carex-vulpinoidea-fox-sedge","title":"Carex vulpinoidea - Fox Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 3-8, 1-3' x 1-3', full sun to dappled, part, or high light shade, flowers are green turning to brown and mildly resemble little foxtails, blooms in late spring, moist to very wet, clay tolerant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eFox Sedge, Brown Fox Sedge, American Fox Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003eCyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e This sedge occurs in five Canadian Provinces and all lower 48 states. It has been introduced in New Zealand and parts of Europe. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eFound in wet, open places: meadow, prairie, field, swamp, marsh\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eMore information coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more:\u003c\/strong\u003e If I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003ePrairie Moon 3\" pots, grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eIst image courtesy of Prairie Moon Nursery; 2nd image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53006909047091,"sku":null,"price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Unknown_80404282-db23-40ba-aae8-4cd90f1da552.jpg?v=1769784627"},{"product_id":"panicum-virgatum-heavy-metal-switch-grass-cultivar","title":"Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' - Switchgrass cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eTwo gallon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 4-9, 48-60\" x 36\", full sun, the blooms appear in late summer as a pink-toned haze above the blue-grey leaves. The leaves turn yellow in the fall, drying to tan for the winter. Tolerant and adaptable of various soil types and moisture levels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is a cultivar of Switchgrass\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe species is a classic, dominant component of the Tall Grass Prairie and is widely distributed across North America. It is found on remnant prairies, in pastures, and on roadsides, and is native to Maine. This cultivar is a selection developed by plantsman Kurt Bluemel. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e The species occurs. on stream banks, in open woods, and on grasslands both damp and dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is a warm season grass, which means it is slow to awaken in spring and does its most active growing during the warm summer months. Ground-feeding songbirds and game birds will eat the seeds as will small mammals. Grasses are excellent cover for numerous species in both summer and winter. The dried stalks are beautiful in the later seasons. Grasses add sound, movement, and texture to the garden. This cultivar has a very vertical, somewhat stiff silhouette when compared to the species. Cut back warm season grasses in the early spring prior to new growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53448761934131,"sku":null,"price":21.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Panicum-virgatum-Heavy-Metal-800x800.jpg?v=1780877999"},{"product_id":"panicum-virgatum-rotstrahlbusch-switch-grass-cultivar","title":"Panicum virgatum 'Rotstrahlbusch' - Switchgrass cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e Two gallon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 5-9, 48-60\" x 24-36\", full sun, the tiny blooms create a warm-tinged haze over the leaves in mid to late summer. The blades emerge a silvery-green and turn quite red in the fall, senescing to tan for the winter. Tolerant and adaptable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a Switchgrass cultivar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe species is a classic, dominant component of the Tall Grass Prairie and is widely distributed across North America. It is found on remnant prairies, pastures, and roadsides, and is native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe species is found on stream banks, in open woods, and on both moist and dry grasslands. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is a warm season grass, which means it is slow to awaken in spring and does its most active growing during the warm summer months. Ground-feeding songbirds and game birds will eat the seeds as will small mammals. Grasses are excellent cover for numerous species in both summer and winter. The dried stalks are beautiful in the later seasons. Grasses add sound, movement, and texture to the garden. Cut back warm season grasses in the early spring prior to new growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53448764784947,"sku":null,"price":21.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Panicum-virgatum-Rotstrahlbusch.jpg?v=1780878089"},{"product_id":"panicum-virgatum-ruby-ribbons-switch-grass-cultivar","title":"Panicum virgatum 'Ruby Ribbons' - Switchgrass cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e One quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 4-8, 36-48\" x 24-30\", full sun to part shade, the tiny blooms are reddish and create a hazy effect over the foliage in late summer. The blades emerge a grey-green and turn red tones in late summer and fall, then senescing to tan for the winter. Adaptable as to soil type and moisture requirements once established. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a cultivar of Switchgrass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Poaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003ePanicum virgatum \u003c\/em\u003eis a classic, dominant species of the Tall Grass Prairie and is widely distributed across North America. It is found on remnant prairies, pastures, and roadsides, and is native to Maine. This is a cultivar of \u003cem\u003eP. virgatum\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e The species is found growing on streambanks, in open woods, and on moist to dry grasslands. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a warm season grass, which means it is slow to wake up in spring and does its most active growing during the warm summer months. Ground-feeding songbirds and game birds will eat the seeds as will small mammals. Grasses are excellent cover for numerous species in both summer and winter. The dried stalks are beautiful in the later seasons. Grasses add sound, movement, and texture to the garden. This cultivar is somewhat shorter and more compact than the species. Cut back warm season grasses in early spring prior to new growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53448767602995,"sku":null,"price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Panicum-virgatum-Ruby-Ribbons-800x800.jpg?v=1780878047"}],"url":"https:\/\/honeypetalplants.com\/collections\/carex-and-grasses.oembed","provider":"Honey Petal Plants","version":"1.0","type":"link"}