Inland Oats (Chasmanthium latifolium)
Chasmanthium latifolium, commonly known as Inland Oats, is a native perennial grass found in woodlands, streambanks, and moist meadows throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils and prefers partial to full shade.
This grass is known for its striking, broad, arching leaves and its unique, flattened seed heads that resemble oats, giving it a distinctive appearance. The seed heads, which turn from green to tan in late summer to fall, hang in clusters along the stems, creating visual interest and movement in the garden. Chasmanthium latifolium typically grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet and has a graceful, arching habit.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Chasmanthium latifolium is an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded landscapes, or naturalized areas with moist, rich soils. It offers year-round interest, with its striking seed heads adding visual appeal in late summer and fall. The plant is also beneficial for wildlife, as its seeds are eaten by birds, and its foliage provides shelter for various small creatures. Additionally, its deep, fibrous root system helps with soil stabilization and erosion control, making it suitable for streambanks or other areas prone to erosion.
Chasmanthium latifolium, commonly known as Inland Oats, is a native perennial grass found in woodlands, streambanks, and moist meadows throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils and prefers partial to full shade.
This grass is known for its striking, broad, arching leaves and its unique, flattened seed heads that resemble oats, giving it a distinctive appearance. The seed heads, which turn from green to tan in late summer to fall, hang in clusters along the stems, creating visual interest and movement in the garden. Chasmanthium latifolium typically grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet and has a graceful, arching habit.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Chasmanthium latifolium is an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded landscapes, or naturalized areas with moist, rich soils. It offers year-round interest, with its striking seed heads adding visual appeal in late summer and fall. The plant is also beneficial for wildlife, as its seeds are eaten by birds, and its foliage provides shelter for various small creatures. Additionally, its deep, fibrous root system helps with soil stabilization and erosion control, making it suitable for streambanks or other areas prone to erosion.
Chasmanthium latifolium, commonly known as Inland Oats, is a native perennial grass found in woodlands, streambanks, and moist meadows throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils and prefers partial to full shade.
This grass is known for its striking, broad, arching leaves and its unique, flattened seed heads that resemble oats, giving it a distinctive appearance. The seed heads, which turn from green to tan in late summer to fall, hang in clusters along the stems, creating visual interest and movement in the garden. Chasmanthium latifolium typically grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet and has a graceful, arching habit.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Chasmanthium latifolium is an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded landscapes, or naturalized areas with moist, rich soils. It offers year-round interest, with its striking seed heads adding visual appeal in late summer and fall. The plant is also beneficial for wildlife, as its seeds are eaten by birds, and its foliage provides shelter for various small creatures. Additionally, its deep, fibrous root system helps with soil stabilization and erosion control, making it suitable for streambanks or other areas prone to erosion.
Bloom: mid-summer to early fall
Habitats: limestone glades; moist alluvial meadows; moist woodlands; rocky slopes along streams; thinly wooded areas in river floodplains; woodland borders
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist
Plant type (height): grass (1.5 to 4 feet)
Requirements: partial sun
Soil: loam; rocky