Grasses, Ornamental

Ornamental Grasses & Grass-like Plants

These are true 3 and 4 season plants for the garden that deliver a lot of bang for just a few bucks. We have tried to choose varieties that are easy to grow in a wide range of sites (although most do require full sun) and are not rampant spreaders that might displace native species. Less expensive and more dramatic than many "specimen" woody plants, grasses should find a home in any garden setting and can be enjoyed and shared with friends and family for years to come. We also grow a few selections of ornamental grasses which are great for use in patio containers, but should generally be treated as annuals. Here is our grass and grass-like plant list for 2008:

Acorus gramineus `Minimus Aureus’
Dwarf Golden Japanese Sweet Flag (Zone 4)
A very cute, little plant great to tuck into tiny pockets of the garden. It is great to use in between stepping stones or as a filler in between plants. It’s golden grass-like foliage grows just 3" tall. It is a slow grower, but eventually can spread up to 12". Prefers full to part sun and can tolerate moist areas. Also, deer resistant.
..............Available in 1-Quart only.

Acorus gramineus ‘Ogon’
Golden Variegated Sweet Flag (Zone 5)
This sweet flag is similar to ‘Variegatus’ only with golden variegation. A wonderful plant for adding texture and coloration to the shade garden. Plants grow to 15" tall and spread approximately 12" wide at maturity.
...............Available in 1-Quart only.

Acorus gramineus variegatus
Japanese Sweet Flag (Zone 6)
Cream and green variegated foliage decorates this acorus. Plants reach 10-12" tall and prefer full sun. A great plant for a moist or wet part of the garden as plants can stand very wet soil conditions.
...............Not available for 2008.

Arrhenatherum elatus bulbosum ‘Variegatum’
Bulbous Oat Grass (Zone 5)
Crisply variegated foliage with white and green stripes forms a nice groundcover. It is a vigorous grower with a prostrate habit, great to use in mass plantings or in containers. White seed heads bloom in May. Grows 12" tall and spreads 24". Prefers full to part sun.
..............Available in 1-Quart only.

Bouteloua gracilis
Blue Grama/Mosquito Grass (Zone 3)
Native to North American prairies, this is a very tough drought tolerant grass. Blue Grama is a warm season grass that grows 6-10" in full sun and dry soil. Flowers develop in June and have interesting horizontal seed heads. Works well in a prairie, meadow, or naturalistic garden. Can also be used as a lawn substitute.
...............Available in IMPACT container only.

Briza media
Quaking Grass (Zone 4)
A cool-season evergreen grass that grows to 24" in bloom. The shimmering flowers emerge green in Early season and turn a beautiful golden color as they mature and "quake" in a gentle breeze. Easy to grow in full sun and a moist fertile soil. Looks best in masses and make an excellent dried flower for arrangements. May be cut back to 3" to encourage a "fresh" looking flush of growth.
...............Available in 1-Quart only.

Calamagrostis acutiflora ‘Avalanche’ (PPAF)
Feather Reed Grass (Zone 5)
A striking variegated form of the PPA Plant of the Year ‘Karl Foerster’. This introduction from Steve Schmidt has white centers that contrast nicely with the deep green margins. Unlike ‘Overdam’, the variegation remains crisp and showy all season long. This Mid-season bloomer grows to 48” tall by 24” wide and is great when used as a specimen or better when used in mass plantings.
...............Available in IMPACT and 2-Gallon containers.

Calamagrostis acutiflora ’Karl Foerster’
Feather Reed Grass (Zone 5)
Selected as the 2001 Perennial Plant Association Plant of the Year, ‘Karl Foerster' is truly a nice three-season grass. It begins its growth early in spring and is one of the earliest flowering of all the grasses we offer. The flower spikes emerge greenish-bronze in May and change over to a nice tan color as the season progresses. This grass is 3-4' tall in flower with the medium green, strap-like foliage growing to about 24". Very easy to grow in full sun and average (even heavy) garden soils. Great as a vertical specimen or used in masses with Rudbeckias and other fall blooming perennials.
...............Available in 1-Quart, IMPACT and 2-Gallon containers.

Calamagrostis acutiflora ’Overdam’
Variegated Feather Reed Grass (Zone 5)
A variegated selection of Feather Reed Grass. The foliage emerges in early spring green with a vertical variegation that is creamy-white tinged with pink. It grows to about 36" in flower, but is primarily grown for its foliage effect. The foliage looks best when grown in part-shade and average garden soils that are kept moist in the heat of summer. A very nice plant for texture and color in the garden.
...............Available in 1-Quart, IMPACT and 2-Gallon containers.

Calamagrostis brachytricha
Korean Feather Reed Grass (Zone 5)
This fine textured grass blooms later than our other Calamagrostis cultivars with pink inflorescences appearing in early fall. This warm season reed grass grows 4-5’ and can tolerate some shade. Plants need a lot of water until established, but once established are relatively drought tolerant and prefer average to dry soil.
...............Available in 1-Quart, IMPACT, and 2-Gallon containers.

Calamagrostis canadensis
Blue Joint Feather Reed Grass (Zone 4)
Narrow blue foliage has an upright growth habit and flower spikes that bloom all summer long. A long lived perennial that is tolerant of sun or shade. Grows 36" tall.
...............Available in 1-Quart only.

Carex appalachica
Appalachian Sedge (Zone 3)
This little sedge makes a nice groundcover with a fountain-like habit that twists and swirls. Its fine texture and free form creates motion in the garden. It likes drier sites in sun or part shade, so it is very versatile and low maintenance. It can make a nice lawn substitute. It grows up to 12".
...............Available in 1-Quart only.

Carex buchananii
Leather Leaf Sedge (Zone 7)
Eye catching 2’ tall tufts of russet copper leaves adds wonderful texture to the garden. This sedge can take sun or shade likes moist well-drained soils. It is perfect for containers or the mixed border. Should be treated as annual.
..............Available in 1-Quart only.

Carex dolichostachya ‘Kaga Nishiki’
Gold Fountain Sedge (Zone 5)
'Kaga Nishiki' is a beautiful shade loving sedge with nearly evergreen striped golden foliage. The leaves are narrow and grow 10-12" tall and the plants are reported to be relatively drought tolerant once established. Cut back last year’s foliage in early spring before new growth starts. This cultivar performs best in a full sun to part shade site with moist, average soils. These are striking in mass plantings and can brighten up woodland paths.
...............Available in 1-Quart only.

Carex elata 'Aurea'
Bowles Golden Sedge (Zone 5)
Stripes of green accent the delicate textured gold foliage. This sedge is well-suited for the moist or wet area of the garden and thrives even when grown in a few inches of water. The gold coloration is best when planted in full sun, however it is tolerant of drier soils when planted in shady conditions. Plants reach 18-30" tall.
...............Available in IMPACT container only.

Carex flacca (glauca)
Blue Sedge (Zone 5)
This is an excellent choice for a groundcover in a tough site! It features blue-gray foliage that slowly spreads but is not invasive. It grows to only 9" tall and prefers a moist loam in full sun but will adapt to almost any site including those with light to medium shade. The reddish inflorescence appears in mid-summer. Foliage should be cut back if ratty to produce beautiful new growth.
..............Available in 1-Quart container only.

Carex morrowii 'Gold Band'
Sedge (Zone 4)
This grass-like sedge has wide green leaves that are edged with a wide gold band, hence its name! Plants thrive in moist to wet soil and tolerate full to part shade. This clump-forming variety will reach 12-16" tall at maturity.
..............Not available for 2008

Carex morrowii ‘Ice Dance’
Sedge (Zone 5)
This semi evergreen sedge has shiny variegated leaves. This plant can take full to part shade and grows up to 12" tall. A great addition to the shade garden for fine bold textured effect.
...............Available in 1-Quart and IMPACT containers.

Carex morrowii var. temnolepis 'Silk Tassel'
Sedge (Zone 5)
Narrow green and white leaves form graceful flowing mounds and will add a beautiful and delicate texture to your garden! Plants require moist to average soil if planted in part-shade but will also tolerate sun if given adequate moisture. Grows to 12".
...............Available in IMPACT container only.

Carex muskingumensis
Palm Sedge (Zone 4)
This sedge is native to stream banks and marshes in the Great Lakes Region of the U.S. It is great as a tall groundcover for wet areas, for erosion control, or as a textural plant in water gardens. It is a slow creeping sedge with palm like culms that grow to 30". Plants will grow in sun or shade, but require more moisture if grown in full sun. Plants will also grow in standing water up to 4" deep.
..............Not available for 2008.

Carex muskingumensis ‘Little Midge’
Palm Sedge (Zone 5)
This dwarf palm sedge has narrow green leaves and grows to 10" tall. Plants spread slowly and can be grown in sun or shade. Adds a nice texture if massed together and is excellent for containers. If placed in full sun plants may require more frequent watering.
..............Available in 1-Quart only.

Carex muskingumensis ‘Oehme’
Variegated Palm Sedge (Zone 5)
Light-green foliage is edged with a yellow margin. Blades are thin and fan out up the stems to create what looks like mini palm trees. It’s a really fun plant! It’s slow growing, but is happy in either part shade or shade with moist or dry soil. It grows to 18" tall.
.............Available in 1-Quart and IMPACT containers.

Carex oshimensis ‘Evergold’
Variegated Sedge (Zone 5)
This sedge has green leaves and a narrow creamy margin. A great plant for massing or contrast to stone walls. This is a must have for the shade garden!
...............Available in 1-Quart only.

Carex platyphylla
Silver Sedge (Zone 4)
This clump forming sedge has silvery-blue leaves that can mature to be an inch wide. With the newest and older foliage growing together, the clump looks like a fountain of ribbons bubbling up from the ground. Plants like moist to average soil, but will tolerate dry shade once established. This eastern U.S. native is a slow grower that will reach a mature size of 8-12" tall.
...............Available in 1-Quart only.

Carex siderosticha ‘Island Brocade’
Sedge (Zone 6)
This unique looking sedge has broad deep green foliage and bright creamy-yellow margins. It forms nice clumps that reach 12" tall and performs best in part-shade to shade environments with moist to average garden soil. Try this perennial sedge for a "tropical" look in your garden.
...............Available in 1-Quart container only.

Carex ‘Silver Sceptre’
Silver Sedge (Zone 5)
A showy addition to the garden, this sedge has white edged leaves and is a clump former. Its narrow leaves give it a fine texture that breaks up more dense areas in the garden. It grows to 12" in part to full shade. It is great for the front of the border, in drifts, or just tucked in here and there. Zone 5
...............Available in 1-Quart only.

Chasmanthium latifolium
Northern Sea Oats (Zone 5 )
Native U.S. grass with flat, oat-like seed heads that bloom in late summer and persist through winter for added season interest. Foliage has a golden fall color. Plants tolerate dry shade or moist sunny sites. Grows 3’.
..............Available in 1-Quart only.

Deschampsia cespitosa ‘Northern Lights’
Hair Grass (Zone 4)
A great plant to use for borders and containers. Narrow foliage is a mix of green and creamy white, but is tinged with reddish-pink. It has a tidy habit with summer flowering panicles that provide a graceful, airy texture. Grows 18-24" tall and prefers full sun and average soil.
.............Available in 1-Quart only.

Festuca glauca ‘Boulder Blue’
Blue Fescue (Zone 4)
This offering is probably the bluest of the Blue Fescues to date. ‘Boulder Blue’ is a compact grower that reaches only 10" tall and like the rest of the blue fescues it is a cool season grass that goes dormant in summer so it is quite drought tolerant. It is best when used in mass or as an edger in mixed borders.
...............Available in IMPACT container only. Limited quantities.

Festuca glauca ’Elijah Blue’
Blue Fescue (Zone 4)
This is a clump forming cool season grass with powdery-blue, needle-like foliage. The color holds well through the summer and is a good accent to other plants. The foliage can grow up to 8" and the plants prefer well-drained soils. It can be used in mass or as an edging plant at the front of the border. It is best to let Festuca run dry during the dormant summer season.
...............Available in 1-Quart and IMPACT containers.

Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’
Variegated Hakone Grass (Zone 5-6)
If given protection from cold drying winter winds, this premium selection will brighten the part-shade garden for years to come. Its bright yellow-green variegated foliage makes an excellent accent or edger plant. Its arching mounds reach 24" tall and the plants require rich moist soils and some winter protection in colder northern climates. With a little protection it should overwinter well in our area!
...............Available in 1-Quart and IMPACT containers.

Hakonechloa macra ‘Beni-kaze’
Hakone Grass (Zone 5)
This hard-to-find Japanese selection features green foliage that displays wonderful red tones in the fall. The flowing form produces nice clumps of 2-3’ tall plants with an equal spread. Plant in part shade and moist soil.
...............Available in IMPACT container only. Summer 2008.

Helictotrichon sempervirens 'Sapphire'
Blue Oat Grass (Zone 4)
This is a beautiful blue foliage grass that is great as an accent plant or used in mass. The powder-blue foliage grows 18" tall with fine textured flowers that appear usually in July. The foliage in zone 5b tends to be semi-evergreen. Blue Oat grass should be grown in full sun and must have a well-drained soil to thrive. It is prone to root-rot in heavy clay soils and rust in too much shade, so site this plant properly and it will reward you yearly! We have had best results when we let this grass run extremely dry in its dormant summer months.
..............Available in 1-Quart only.

Imperata 'Red Baron'
Japanese Blood Grass (Zone 6)
Bright crimson foliage grows 12-18" tall and can spread to form a gorgeous mass. Spreading sometimes can be a problem especially with the green offshoots. In warmer areas this plant can spread more rapidly. In fact this plant is banned in several states as it can become invasive but when planted in a proper area in Ohio it seems to behave itself rather appropriately.
...............Available in 1-Quart and IMPACT containers.

Juncus effuses ‘Unicorn’
Giant Spiral Rush (Zone 4)
'Unicorn' is another one of the curly rushes. This selection differs from the other curly rushes in that the foliage is deeper green with more twists, also taller, easier to grow and more vigorous. Foliage looks exceptional in flower arrangements and unusual centerpieces. Grows to 1½’ in wet to average soils. Warm season grass. Prefers sun to part-shade. Flowers are insignificant.
...............Available in IMPACT container only.

Juncus inflexus ‘Afro’
Blue Medusa Rush (Zone 4)
'Afro' is a very unusual selection with smooth, round, blue foliage that is curled and twisted! The foliage effect is striking – not many other plants in the garden are going to give you this display of bizarre foliage. This distorted foliage can be used as a nice addition to flower arrangements and unusual centerpieces. Grows to 1½’ in a full sun site with wet to average soil moisture. Warm season rush with insignificant flowers.
...............Available in IMPACT container only.

Liriope muscari 'Big Blue'
Lilyturf (Zone 5)
'Big Blue' is the most versatile and most popular green liriope! Wide dark green foliage gives way to beautiful lavender flower spikes in summer. An excellent choice for edging along the perennial border or woodland bed as well as in rock gardens. An outstanding ground cover for shaded or dry sites, does well even in dry shade. Cut back in early spring to promote fresh new growth. Grows 12-18" tall.
..............Available in IMPACT container only.

Liriope muscari 'Monroe's White'
Lilyturf (Zone 5)
'Monroe's White', the only white flowering lilyturf, forms dense dark green clumps of grass-like foliage. This summer flowering cultivar is excellent as a ground cover or edging but must be planted in partial shade or leaves will burn. Plants are highly adaptable and require little maintenance. Cut back foliage in early spring to encourage new growth. Grows 12-18" tall.
..............Available in IMPACT container only.

Liriope muscari 'Royal Purple'
Lilyturf (Zone 5)
Beautiful deep purple flowers rise on spikes above dark green, grasslike foliage. This summer flowering cultivar is excellent as a ground cover or edging. Plants are highly adaptable and require little maintenance. Cut back foliage in early spring to encourage new growth. Grows 12-18" tall.
..............Available in IMPACT container only.

Liriope muscari 'Variegata'
Lilyturf (Zone 5)
Showy green and white striped foliage create a nice background for beautiful lavender flowers. The variegation will increase with sun & decrease with shade. A great choice for adding foliage color in the border and also beautiful when used in large numbers. Superb ground cover for shaded or dry sites. Cut back in early spring to promote fresh new growth. Grows 12-18".
..............Available in IMPACT container only.

Liriope spicata
Lilyturf (Zone 5)
This rapid spreading groundcover has thin green leaves that create a nice fine texture in the garden. Plants are widely adaptable and are a great choice for slopes, erosion control, or use as and edger. Pale lavender flowers bloom in summer, though not prolifically. Tolerant of dry soils. Cut back in early spring to promote fresh new growth. Grows 12-18" tall.
..............Available in IMPACT container only.

Miscanthus xgiganteus (aka floridulus)
Giant Miscanthus (Zone 4)
Contrary to what the species name might suggest, this is in fact a hardy maiden grass that as its common name correctly suggests does get quite large. It is a somewhat coarse clump forming grass that can grow to 14’. The flowers are not as showy as some of the other maiden grasses, but the foliage does turn a nice purplish-red in fall. Best if used as a screen or in large containers and will add a tropical feel to any garden!
...............Available in 2-Gallon container only.

Miscanthus ‘Purpurascens’
Flame Grass (Zone 5)
As its’ common name suggests, this grass has wonderful coloration. Light green foliage turns a beautiful reddish-orange with the onset of cooler fall temperatures. Magenta blooms turn to white as they age. Plants reach 4’ tall when in flower and prefer dry conditions in full sun.
..............Available 2-Gallon container only.

Miscanthus sinensis ’Adagio’
Dwarf Maiden Grass (Zone 5)
A Kurt Bluemel selection with narrow, silver-green foliage that grows 4' tall. The flowers open pinkish-silver in August and mature to a nice creamy white. Plant in full sun and a moist rich garden soil.
...............Available 2-Gallon container only.

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Cosmopolitan’
Japanese Silver Maiden Grass (Zone 5)
This is often considered an improved form of ‘Variegatus’. The broad dark green leaves feature a wide white margin. It is a strong grower with a non-floppy habit. It grows to 7’ tall. The coppery-red flowers appear in late-season. Easy to grow in full-sun and well-drained soils. Beware: the grass blades can be razor sharp!
...............Available in 2-Gallon container only.

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Dixieland’
Maiden Grass (Zone 5)
‘Dixieland’ is more compact form of M. ‘Variegatus’ with green and white variegated foliage. Plants reportedly do not require staking. Silky pink plumes develop in mid-summer and persist into winter. Mature plants reach in full sun and average well-drained soil. Plumes make good cut flowers and are also nice for drying. Deer resistant.
...............Not available for 2008.

Miscanthus sinensis 'Gold Bar' (PP15193)
Maiden Grass (Zone 5)
A showy new selection from Joy Creek Nursery. This slow grower has bright-green foliage that is heavily banded with creamy-yellow stripes from the base of the plant to the tips of the leaves. In fall, burgundy flowers appear just above the foliage. Slowly grows to a mature height ranging from 3-5' in full sun and a moist but well-drained soil.
...............Available in IMPACT container only.

Miscanthus sinensis ’Gracillimus’
Maiden Grass (Zone 5)
Reliably hardy in zone 5, Maiden grass grows 5-6' with narrow green foliage with a silver center stripe. The copper colored flowers appear in September and mature to a nice silvery color that persists into winter. Plant in full sun and a rich garden soil. Great in masses and screens!
...............Available in 1-Quart, IMPACT, and 2-Gallon containers.

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Graziella’
Japanese Silver Grass (Zone 5)
This selection is for all intents and purposes identical in appearance to ‘Gracillimus’. It differs in that it flowers 4 to 6 weeks earlier in the landscape. Its’ narrow green leaves grow to about 5’ tall and are then topped with silvery-white flower plumes in August. Easy to grow in full sun and a well drained soil.
...............Available in 2-Gallon container only.

Miscanthus sinensis 'Huron Blush'
Maiden Grass (Zone 4)
This shorter, clump forming variety is a great addition for any garden. It produces upright wide green leaves with a narrow white midrib. In late summer a profusion of beautiful creamy-tan to blush-pink seed heads appear. Plants reach 4-5' tall and keeps great form going into the cool season giving it great winter interest.
..............Available in IMPACT container only.

Miscanthus sinensis 'Huron Sentinel'
Maiden Grass (Zone 4)
This tall, upright, arching selection grows to about 5’. It has wide green leaves with a narrow white midrib. The real eye catcher is the beautiful, fluffy, fawn-colored seed heads that has a texture similar to chenille. These seed heads give this plant tremendous winter interest!
..............Available in IMPACT container only.

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Little Kitten’
Dwarf Maiden Grass (Zone 5)
'Little Kitten' is a beautiful dwarf selection growing to only 2’. The fine green foliage grows in a tight compact mound. The shorter habit makes it more easily used in a variety of confined garden situations. Because of its' small stature it does not flop or open up. Fan shaped plumes are produced in August and reach about 3’. Prefers full sun with drier soils. As with most other ornamental grasses with showy plumes, these plants should be cut back in early spring so their form can add interest to the winter garden.
...............Available in IMPACT container only.

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Little Nicky’
Maiden Grass (Zone 5)
‘Little Nicky’ is a shorter version of the popular M. ‘Zebrinus’. It has the same wide green foliage with horizontal yellow bands but it is 2-3’ shorter reaching only 4’ tall. Plants prefer full sun and dry soil. This warm season grass sends up silvery plumes in August-September. Good as a specimen or as a tall background grass.
...............Available in IMPACT container only. Limited availability.

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Little Zebra’ (PP13008)
Maiden Grass (Zone 5)
In our continuing search for good new plants we have come upon this new selection with at least three desirable traits. First it flowers late so that spread from seed should not be a problem. Second, the yellow banding remains attractive (visible) all season on the narrow, dark green leaves. Third, it is a dwarf selection growing to only 40” tall so flop should not be a problem either. Its flowers that appear in Late-season are reddish purple and useful in many garden settings.
...............Available in IMPACT and 2-Gallon containers.

Miscanthus sinensis 'Malepartus'
Japanese Silver Grass (Zone 5)
The name is in reference to the extra showy flower parts of this selection. The flowers are large and purplish-bronze when emerging and mature to a nice silver color. This is a strong grower reaching 7' tall. The foliage turns a nice bronze color in fall on this Japanese silver grass. Plant in full sun and in a moist, rich garden soil.
...............Available in 2-Gallon container only.

Miscanthus sinensis ’Morning Light’
Japanese Silver Grass (Zone 5)
A variegated selection that has an overall finely textured, silver-gray appearance. The flowers are bronze colored when opening in Mid-season and mature to gray and persist into winter. 'Morning Light' grows 4-5' tall in full sun and a moist garden soil.
...............Available in 1-Quart (Limited quantities), IMPACT and 2-Gallon containers.

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Strictus’
Porcupine Grass (Zone 4)
An excellent clump forming selection with yellow horizontal banding on upright "pointy" foliage. This selection is a substitute for the more unruly Miscanthus ‘Zebrinus’ that is seen in many older gardens. Like the other maiden grasses it is easy to grow in full sun and moist well-drained soils. It grows to 4-5’ with the coppery blooms appearing in September. It is best sighted where it can be backlit effectively in the morning or evening. It is tolerant of moist almost boggy soils and is therefore good in water gardens!
...............Available in 2-Gallon container only.

Miscanthus sinensis ’Variegatus’
Maiden Grass (Zone 5)
An old selection but still one of the best. Wide white striped foliage forms open clumps that grow 4-5’. The typical Miscanthus flowers appear in August 1-2' above the foliage. Because of the foliage it is best to place this cultivar in a part-shade area to prevent leaf scorch. In fall, the foliage turns a nice shade of tan and adds additional interest to the garden.
...............Available in IMPACT and 2-Gallon containers.

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Yaku Jima’
Maiden Grass (Zone 5)
‘Yaku Jima’ was one of the first dwarf Miscanthus cultivars introduced into the trade. Growing to only 3’, this is a warm season grass with medium green foliage and silvery flower plumes that appear in August. In late fall the flower plumes turn a tan color and persist into winter. As with most other ornamental grasses, do not prune back until early spring to fully appreciate their winter interest. Requires full sun, and average well-drained soil.
...............Available in IMPACT container only.

Muhlenbergia capillaris
Pink Muhly Grass (Zone 6)
This native warm season grass has upright blue-green foliage with amazing pink plumes in late summer! Pink muhly grass reaches 2-3’ tall and can be quite striking when planted in mass. Plants prefer full sun and sandy soils but will tolerate part shade.
..............Available in 1-Quart only.

Nassella tenuissima
Mexican Feather Grass (Zone 6-7)
This fine textured grass has bright green foliage that sways in the wind. Feathery plumes bloom in May and add even more movement to the grass. This is best treated as an annual in cooler zones such as Ohio, but it is great to use in containers and beautiful en masse in the garden.
..............Available in 1-Quart only. Limited quantities.

Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Niger’
Black Mondo Grass (Zone 5-6)
An exciting slow spreading groundcover that is great for sun or shade! Very dark, nearly black foliage stays evergreen through the winter. It grows just 8-10" tall. Small white flowers bloom in summer and are a cute accent to the foliage. An excellent choice for a rock garden or perennial border.
..............Available IMPACT container only. Limited quantities.

Panicum virgatum ’Heavy Metal’
Switch Grass (Zone 5)
Currently our favorite Kurt Bluemel selection. A metallic blue foliage selection of our native switch grass. The stiff leaves form an upright clump 36" tall. The large flower panicles appear in July 18" above the foliage. The foliage then turns a bright yellow in fall and holds its silhouette well into winter. Plant in full sun and average moist to almost wet soil. Great as a specimen, in mass, and near water features.
...............Available in 1-Quart and 2-Gallon containers.

Panicum virgatum ‘Northwind’
Switch Grass (Zone 4)
A great native to use as a substitute for miscanthus for a vertical accent in the garden! ‘Northwind’ is a great introduction with blue-green foliage with a distinctive upright habit reaching 5’ tall. It is a fast grower that is tolerant of a wide range of soils including very wet. Performs best if grown in full sun. Its’ straw-colored flowers appear in September.
...............Available in 2-Gallon container only.

Panicum virgatum ‘Rotstrahlbusch’
Red Switchgrass (Zone 4)
This smaller switchgrass reaches only about 2½’ when in flower. The green foliage turns a wonderful red color in fall with the cooler temperatures. Typical switchgrass flowers appear in July. Plant in full sun and average soil.
..............Not available for 2008.

Panicum virgatum ’Shenandoah’
Switch Grass (Zone 5)
The king (queen) of the red foliaged switch grasses, this German introduction has red foliage throughout the season and into fall. The flowers are airy in appearance and are also red. They first emerge in July and top off the plant height at about 3' tall. Cultural information is the same as the other virgatum cultivars.
...............Available in 1-Quart, IMPACT and 2-Gallon containers.

Pennisetum alopecuroides
Fountain Grass (Zone 5-6)
This is an excellent plant when used in mass or as a specimen plant. It’s bottlebrush like flowers appear in Mid-season and last into early winter before shattering. Plants are reliably hardy in zone 5 if provided with good winter drainage and if they are planted before going dormant late in the season. Grows to 40" tall.
...............Available in 2-Gallon container only.

Pennisetum alopecuroides ’Hameln’
Dwarf Fountain Grass (Zone 5-6)
‘Hameln' is an excellent choice in smaller gardens as the plants only grow 18-24" tall and have a similar spread. Like the species, it should be planted early enough to get established before going dormant and be provided with good winter drainage. The seed heads are whitish when they appear in Mid-season.
...............Available in 1-Quart, IMPACT and 2-Gallon containers.

Pennisetum alopecuroides ’Little Bunny’
Miniature Fountain Grass (Zone 5-6)
This is a dwarf Fountain Grass selection that is best suited for the rock garden. It grows to only 10" tall and is nice when combined with Sedum ‘Autumn Joy' and Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’. Winter drainage and early plantings are a must to overwinter this plant consistently in zone 5.
...............Available in 1-Quart and IMPACT containers.

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Little Honey’
Fountain Grass (Zone 5-6)
This variegated form of ‘Little Bunny’ will surely add interest to small spaces. This fountain grass only reaches 10" tall and loves the sun. ‘Little Honey’ is an ideal choice for the front of the border, containers, and rock gardens.
...............Not available for 2008.

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Moudry’
Fountain Grass (Zone 5)
'Moudry' differs from other Pennisetum varieties in that the green foliage is considerably wider, which gives it a fuller appearance. Black flower plumes are very distinctive and bloom from August to September. Grows to 2’ in a full sun site with drier soils. A word of note, Pennisetum’s usually seed very heavy, so be careful to remove and watch for any unwanted seedlings in the garden. Prefer a full sun site with average well-drained soils.
...............Available in IMPACT and 2-Gallon containers.

Pennisetum ‘Red Riding Hood’
Dwarf Purple Fountain Grass (Zone 9)
This is a dwarf form of P. setaceum ‘Rubrum’. It fits in those spots where you want that great color, but P. ‘Rubrum’ just gets too tall. Great for smaller containers and the front of the border. Prefers full sun. Grows 12-18" tall. Best if treated like an annual.
.............Available in 1-Quart only.

Pennisetum setaceum ’Rubrum’
Purple Fountain Grass (Zone 8-10)
This plant has a gorgeous deep purple-red color. It is an excellent plant for the border, but is hardy only to Zone 8 so it should be treated as an annual. Another great use for this plant is in containers. It can add height and a splash of color to any size pot. The color lasts on into early winter and the flowers, reddish-brown arching plumes, look great all year long. This plant can grow to 4' and prefers well-drained soils. Best treated as an annual.
...............Available in 1-Quart only.

Phalaris arundinancea ‘Dwarf Garters’
Dwarf Variegated Ribbon Grass (Zone 4)
This is a dwarf version of our other lovely Ribbon Grasses. Crisp variegated foliage is tinged with pink when it emerges in the spring. The pink slowly fades as the season progresses. Being shorter, this plant has a more upright habit than the others, but still likes to wander and spread. Good to use in the border or in containers. Grows 12-15" tall.
..............Available in 1-Quart only.

Phalaris arundinacea ’Picta’
Ribbon Grass (Zone 4)
An attractive groundcover with bright green leaves with white stripes running through them. This is a vigorous grower and could benefit from having some boundaries, such as a sidewalk, etc. It will grow up to 3' tall and can spread exponentially if given the chance. This plant performs best in well-drained sites and full sun, but will tolerate a variety of sites.
...............Available in 1-Quart only.

Phalaris arundinacea ‘Strawberries and Cream’
Ribbon Grass (Zone 4)
This green and white variegated ribbon grass is similar to 'Picta', but has pink tones appearing on the new growth. Vigorous plants reach 3’ tall.
..............Available in 1-Quart only.

Saccharum ravennae (Erianthus ravennae)
Plume Grass (Zone 5-6)
Some references say zone 5, some say zone 6, but we are successful overwintering this grass 10 years out of 11 in our zone 5b gardens. An excellent specimen plant that grows up to 12' tall when in flower. Large silvery plumes appear in August and hold up well into early winter. Grow in full sun and a moist, well-drained soil. The seed heads are a good seed source for goldfinches, so leave them up if you can!
...............Available in 2-Gallon container only.

Schizachyrium scoparium
Little Bluestem (Zone 3)
This classic North American grass is native to the prairies and dry meadows mainly in the Midwest. It is a warm season grass growing 2-3’ with foliage that ranges in color from green to blue to purple. Often times all three colors will be present on the same plant at one time. Small seed heads appear on the flower spikes in September. One of the most outstanding ornamental features of this grass is its gorgeous reddish-orange fall color – quite spectacular when the garden is in need of color! This extremely tough drought tolerant grass requires little more than full sun and average to dry soils. Effective when planted in masses and in sunny naturalistic gardens.
...............Not available for 2008.

Schizachyrium scoparium ’The Blues’
Little Blue Stem (Zone 3)
An outstanding selection of the U.S. prairie native Little Bluestem! Every wild garden should have this true blue selection that is tolerant of summer heat and humidity and then has a great red fall color. This clump forming selection grows to 36" tall when planted in full sun and average garden soil. An excellent choice that should be used in mass to be fully enjoyed!
..............Available in 1-Quart only.

Sorghastrum nutans
Indian Grass (Zone 4)
Easily this is one of the most beautiful grasses native to the tall grass prairies of the central U.S. The green foliage is upright growing between 2 and 3 feet. In late-season the flowers are borne on erect spikes up to 2 feet above the foliage. Its’ fall color is nice, first turning yellow and then a burnt-orange. Easy to grow in a wide range of full sun sites and is excellent in mass plantings, for erosion control, in prairie restorations, or as a specimen in the garden. Indian Grass will seed itself somewhat in the garden.
...............Not available for 2008.

Spodiopogon sibericus
Silver Spikegrass (Zone 5)
We first saw this grass used in a small planting in Minnesota and fell in love with it! It has a bamboo-like quality about it and is perfect for the smaller garden. The green foliage grows to about 3’ and shows hints of purple in cool weather. The airy flower panicles appear in mid-season about 18" above the foliage and are purplish at first and then changing to a soft brown. Grows best in moist but well-drained soils in full sun to part-shade. Not a good grass for hot dry sites or southern gardens.
...............Not available for 2008.

Sporobolus heterolepis
Prairie Dropseed (Zone 3)
This native prairie grass is considered by some plant experts to be one of the finest grasses available. Its narrow, medium green, fine textured foliage has a tufted, clumping habit that particularly lends itself well to groupings and mass plantings in the landscape. The foliage grows to 24", while the beautiful, airy, cloud-like flowers shoot up to 3 ½’. The flowers are held well above the foliage, making them very visible and attractive in the garden. They begin to plume in August and persist into winter adding valuable texture to the winter landscape. Probably one of the most striking features of this native beauty is the vibrant orange-red fall color. This plant will visually set the landscape on fire with its unique autumnal hues. This is a tough, underused plant that adds many valuable uses in the landscape.
...............Available in 1-Quart only.