Chasmanthium laxum - Grass, Slender Woodoats

Height: 2’ to 4’
Spread:
Light Needs: part sun to shade
Water: average to moist
Flower color: green
Bloom time: June to October 

This native grass is not often sold and little information is available about its use in gardens. It is reported to be adaptable to a wide range of conditions and is one of a small number of ornamental grasses that will grow well in shade. It develops into a clump of slender, arching leaves. The small, arrowhead-shaped seed heads are similar to but smaller than those of its relative, the inland sea oats. Compared to Chasmanthium sessiflorum, it has slightly narrower leaves, can grow a little taller and naturally grows in moister soils. Caterpillars of northern pearly-eye butterfly and various skippers use this plant as a host. Birds eat the seeds. Deer tend to leave grasses alone.