Ornamental Grasses Used in Landscapes in the Midwest

Ornamental grasses have become very popular in today's landscapes. They are attractive, adding subtle color to an otherwise green display, and provide refuge and home to a variety of wildlife. Below is a partial list and description of grasses that are used in the Midwest (zones 4 to 6).

Big Bluestem - perennial that reaches heights up to eight feet. Prefers full sun, and lots of space as it spreads quickly. Fall color is brown to tan-purple. It should be cut back in early spring before new plant growth begins.

Blue Lyme Grass - approximately five feet in height, this blue ornamental spreads quickly through rhizomes. Plant in open sunny areas by itself and cut back in later fall or early spring to display new growth.

Bulbous Oatgrass - about one foot in height, this grass prefers moist, sandy soil and the variegated variety looks great as a border in small gardens.

Karl Foerster Feather Reedgrass - six to seven feet tall, this ornamental prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade. It has beautiful yellow-green foliage lasts all summer long, and changes to a straw color in the fall. Cut back in early spring to allow for new growth.

Cord Grass - can grow up to six feet high. A stiff plant that is excellent for pond landscapes or acting as a screen or barrier. It is yellow-green or green in color and prefers full sun.

Giant Reedgrass - is used in landscape backgrounds and as a screening plant because of its size, which can reach 12 feet high. It has mellow blue-green color and prefers full sun. Its rhizomes are very large and should be protected with mulch over the winter months after it has been cut back.

Indian Grass - grows approximately seven feet tall and is a native prairie grass. It has a gray-green color and prefers wet areas. It is the perfect ornamental to use as a screening unit because of its stiff growth or can be combined with other attractive foliage.