Ornamental grasses to add striking texture, character and form to the garden are the theme for the HTA’s ‘Plant of the Moment’ August promotion...
From dainty Blue Fescue Grass to majestic Miscanthus, ornamental grasses provide a quality unmatched by many other hardy perennials. Their presence develops through the seasons as bright and colourful foliage is joined by graceful swaying flower heads that last well into winter.
In large borders, grasses can be planted in bold groups or striking drifts, but many perform well in large patio pots, positioned where their individual shape and arching form can be fully appreciated. Popular grasses for pots include compact Blue Fescue Grass and Slender Sweet Flag ‘Ogon’, or taller varieties of Miscanthus such as the Zebra Grass (Miscanthus ‘Zebrinus’).
Taller grasses also add movement to otherwise static displays, catching a summer breeze to add interest and attract the eye. Growing to around two metres in height, the bold form of Golden Oats (Stipa gigantea) is a real showstopper. If space allows, a statuesque clump of Pampas Grass will produce feathery plumes to enjoy right into winter.
Large individuals have a real presence, taking pride of place in beds and borders, while colourful planting combinations can be created with flowering perennials like Black-eyed Susan, Coneflowers and Ice Plants.
Top four ornamental grasses
- · Festuca
- · Pennisetum
- · Miscanthus
- · Stipa
Planning and planting tips
· Be generous and plant grasses in drifts or bold groups rather than as lonely individuals.
· Grasses grow well in patio pots, but make sure tall varieties are planted in large, heavy pots to prevent them blowing over in strong winds.
· Line terracotta pots with plastic from old compost bags to help conserve moisture.
· The tops of some perennial, like miscanthus, die over winter. Promptly cut away all old growth to avoid damaging new shoots that start emerging in early spring.
Other popular ornamental grasses
- · Slender Sweet Flag ‘Ogon’ (Acorus gramineus ‘Ogon’)
- · Arundo donax
- · Cortaderia (Pampas Grass)
- · Imperata
- · Millium
- · Miscanthus
- · Stipa
Planting partners·
- · Achillea
- · Astrantia
- · Bergamot (Monarda didyma)
- · Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’)
- · Centaurea
- · Cirsium rivulare ‘Atropurpureum’
- · Herb Fennel
Click here for more information and to download the media pack which features: plant information for each month including top plants, tips and companion plant ideas, high and low resolution photos, plus Point-of-Sale samples from Floramedia and Hortipak.
Image-©Adam Pasco Media
