Northern Sea Oats (Chasmanthium latifolium)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
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University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Ornamental Grass

Northern Sea Oats
Chasmanthium latifolium

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Northern Sea Oats <em>Chasmanthium latifolium</em>
Northern Sea Oats Chasmanthium latifolium
 
Features

Light green leaves have a bamboo like appearance. Foliage changes to copper brown in fall. Seed heads very attractive going from green to copper colored. Very persistent late into the winter.

This is a running (slowly) warm season grass.

 
 
Culture
Prefers a rich soil but is very tolerant of poor soil conditions and heat. Prefers a sun site but will tolerate dry shade. 
 
Cultivars
 
 
Mature Height
3-5 Feet
 
Size
 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 9 
 
Soil Conditions
Dry
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Tend to reseed.

 
Additional Notes
Effective as a mass planting. It is salt tolerant so will grow where salt spray is an issue. Seed heads excellent for dried use.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic