Ornamental grasses are popular today for adding texture, movement, and architectural interest to the garden, and the number of enthusiasts has mushroomed. Rather than choosing an exotic species, natives can provide just as dramatic a show, yet they have all the added benefits of being local to the environment and not needing a lot of water or upkeep to maintain the appearance, not to mention attracting native wildlife. In this article, we explore seven unique ornamental native grasses that add both structure and style to your garden.

1. Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)

Little Bluestem is a classic native grass, beautiful in seasonal color and graceful form. A warm-season perennial that grows in clumps, this native grass is 2 to 4 feet tall. It does well in borders, in meadows, or as a specimen plant.

Appearance: The small bluestem starts off in spring and summer with silvery-blue foliage; but when fall comes, it’s a riot of flames of red, orange, and purple. The tender heads of seed are held a silvery glow against light.

Growing Conditions: It performs with well-drained soils; tolerates drought making them perfect for xeriscaping.

Wildlife Benefits: Its primary benefits include sheltering tiny animals and seeds as supplementary food for birds particularly over winter.

2. Purple Lovegrass (Eragrostis spectabilis)

For a dash of whimsy, there is no better choice than Purple Lovegrass. This low-growing native grass creates a vibrant groundcover with its unique pinkish-purple haze of flowers.

Appearance: The fine, airy seed heads create a cloud-like effect, giving the plant a soft, ethereal look in late summer.

Growing Conditions: Prefers sandy or rocky soils and full sun. It’s highly drought-tolerant and thrives in poor soils.

Wildlife Benefits: attracts pollinators and provides seeds for birds.

3. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)

Switchgrass is a highly diverse, robust native grass that has been a prairie landscape staple for hundreds of years. Its erect stem and colorful plumes mean that it is always impressive in the garden.

Foliage: This grass displays deep blue-green foliage that develops into golden yellow by autumn. Airy flower panicles appear in mid summer.

Growing Conditions: It thrives on a wide variety of soils, from clay, to wet sites and dry conditions.

Wildlife Benefits: The seeds of this species are an attractive food source for songbirds, and the dense growth provides shelter for wildlife.

4. Prairie Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis)

Prairie Dropseed is enjoyed for its fine-textured foliage and fountain-like, flowing habit. This is one of the showiest native grasses available for gardeners who enjoy elegance and ease in planting.

Appearance: Its narrow, arching leaves are green during the growing season, turning a rich golden-orange in the fall. Its fragrant seed heads are like coriander.

Growing Conditions: Does well in well-drained soils and full sun but tolerates partial shade.

Wildlife Benefits: Supplies seeds for birds and habitat for insects.

5. Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans)

Indian Grass is an outstanding native grass that provides vertical interest and a touch of wild prairie to your garden. Its tall, delicate plumes are a showy display.

Appearance: The grass has blue-green foliage and golden-yellow seed heads that glow in the sunlight. Fall colors include shades of orange and bronze.

Growing Conditions: Indian Grass prefers well-drained soils and full sun but is quite tolerant of different conditions.

Wildlife Benefits: Food and shelter for birds and insects, including native pollinators.

6. Buffalo Grass (Bouteloua dactyloides)

Buffalo Grass is a low-growing native grass that’s great for natural lawn or groundcover applications. Its soft texture and versatility make it an attractive but practical choice.

Appearance: This grass creates dense, soft mats of blue-green foliage that tan in fall. It has flag-like seed heads.

Growth Conditions: Full sun, tolerates drought. A perfect pick for water-wise landscaping.

Wildlife Value: Feeds pollinators and forage for grazing animals.

7. Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)

Big Bluestem is known as the “King of the Prairie.” This grass stands tall, reaching incredible heights. It is truly a show stopper that makes a statement in big landscapes.

Appearance: Reaches heights of up to 8 feet, with blue-green foliage that turns reddish-bronze in the fall. Its seed heads are shaped like a turkey’s foot.

Growing Conditions: Tolerates a range of soils and is highly drought-resistant.

Wildlife Benefits: Provides food and cover for birds, mammals, and insects.

Design Tips for Using Native Grasses

Incorporating native grasses into your landscape can create a harmonious, sustainable garden. Here are some tips to maximize their impact:

Layering: Utilize shorter grasses, like Prairie Dropseed or Purple Lovegrass, as an up-front border; in contrast, use taller varieties such as Switchgrass or Big Bluestem toward the back of a border.

Seasonal Interest: Mix grasses having different bloom times and colors of foliage for continuous seasonal interest.

Companion Plants: Plant native grasses with wildflowers such as coneflowers, black-eyed Susans or milkweed to create a natural prairie landscape.

Mass Planting: Plant in groups or drifts to create a strong, harmonious effect.

Maintenance: Most native grasses need little to no care. Cut back in late winter or early spring to allow for new growth to emerge.

Benefits of Native Grasses

Selecting native grasses instead of the exotics offers many ecological and practical benefits:

Low Maintenance: After establishing native grasses, they require less water, fertilizers, and even maintenance.

1. These plants provide habitat and food for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
2. Native grasses hold soil with deep root systems that stabilize and prevent erosion.
3. Drought Tolerance: Adapted to the local climates, native grasses survive very well under dry conditions.
4. Native grasses beautify any garden through their diversity in form, texture, and color.

Conclusion

Native ornamental grasses are a versatile and sustainable choice for gardeners seeking to enhance their landscapes with structure and style. From the delicate charm of Purple Lovegrass to the towering majesty of Big Bluestem, these grasses offer endless design possibilities while supporting local ecosystems. By incorporating these seven unique varieties into your garden, you’ll create a space that’s not only beautiful but also ecologically harmonious.