Chasmanthium latifolium - Northern Sea Oats

Sizes available: HPP quart, landscape plugs also available, please contact nursery

Basics: zones 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.

Common names: Northern Sea Oats, River Oats, Inland Sea Oats

Family: Poaceae

Origin/Distribution: Eastern U.S. native, but not native to Maine.

Habitat: waterbody edges, low, moist areas of dappled woodland 

More: This 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. 

Grasses 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.

Source: Landscape plugs from North Creek Nursery, grown on at Honey Petal Plants

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons