Northern sea oats is a loosely tufted, clump-forming grass with lance-shaped, arching mid-green foliage that turns yellow in winter. Summer brings highly decorative oat-like panicles of flat, green flowerheads that shimmer and rustle in the wind, aging to bronze by late summer.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsDried spikelets are great for arrangements. Cut before they are fully mature.
CareThis native to the eastern U.S. and northern Mexico is easy to grow in full sun or shade, in fertile, well-drained soil with ample moisture. Cut down in late winter. Drought tolerant once established.
PropagationEasy to start from seed. Divide between midspring and early summer.
ProblemsUsually trouble-free.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Hunter Industries MP-1000-90 Hunter Nozzle
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- Double-pop technology flushes the nozzle during start-up and shutdown to prevent clogging
- Wind-resistant, multi-directional streams provide even coverage
Gilmour 811673-1001 Sprinkler
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- Adjustable collar for partial- to full-circle coverage
- Dial precisely sets spray distance
- On/off switch eliminates trips from sprinkler to spigot
Scotts Cordless Grass-Shear/Shrub-Trimmer Combo
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- 13.5 x 3 x 5 inches
- Uses a 7.2-Volt 2Ah high-capacity built-in lithium-ion battery; Includes a fast charger
- Genus : Chasmanthium
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Tolerance : Drought Tolerant
- Bloom Time : Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer, Summer
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Plant Type : Grasses
- Flower Color : Green
- Maintenance : Low
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Characteristics : Showy Foliage, Showy Seed Heads
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
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