River Oats (Chasmanthium latifolium) will add texture and charm to your landscape. This striking ornamental grass is known for its versatility and ecological benefits. A short-lived perennial, River Oats grows in graceful clumps, reaching 2–5 feet tall and spreading 1–2.5 feet wide. Its green flowers mature into showy brown fruits, creating a dynamic visual display. Perfect for full sun to partial shade, River Oats thrives in moist to slightly dry loam or sandy soils, making it ideal for diverse garden settings across the eastern United States.
While this grass is winter dormant and not salt tolerant, it is a prolific self-seeder and can spread aggressively, which makes it well-suited for groundcover or border plantings. Its seeds are a valuable food source for small birds and other wildlife, and it serves as a larval host plant for several skipper butterflies, adding ecological value to your garden. Whether you're looking to support local fauna or create a naturalistic landscape, River Oats is a dynamic and resilient choice.
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