Everything You Need to Know to Grow Ornamental Grasses and Choose the Right Varieties

September 2, 2025

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If you’re looking for plants that bring beauty, movement, and structure to the garden with minimal fuss, ornamental grasses should be at the top of your list. Perennials and annuals that often have the dramatic presence of shrubs, their versatility makes them equally at home in formal landscapes, naturalistic plantings, and even containers. Whether you want a bold vertical accent, a soft billowing edge to your walkway, or a tapestry of texture and color that changes with the seasons, there’s a grass that fits the bill.

Ornamental grasses aren’t just background players; many varieties are true focal points. Most gardeners know about the ubiquitous and showy ‘Karl Foerster’ feather reed grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora, Zones 5-9), but have you heard of lesser-known stars like bunny tail grass (Lagurus ovatus, annual)? There is so much diversity in this group of plants, but whether you are considering a grass which is warm-season or cool-season, annual or perennial, or evergreen or deciduous, they all excel at providing multiple seasons of interest. Most even look beautiful when their growth has completely faded.

Beyond their visual appeal, ornamental grasses are remarkably easy to care for. Many are drought-tolerant once established, resistant to pests and diseases, and able to thrive in a wide range of soils. Some North American native grasses such as switchgrass (Panicum virgatum, Zones 4–9), are attractive enough to rival the most colorful cultivars of non-native ornamental grasses on the market, while still supporting local ecosystems and acting as host plants to native insect species.

This collection of articles, videos, and podcasts will help you explore the full potential of ornamental grasses for your garden. You’ll discover design tips for pairing these plants with other perennials, shrubs, and trees to create dynamic year-round displays. You’ll also learn how to select the right species and cultivars for your climate and soil, along with practical advice on planting, dividing, and maintaining them to ensure they look their best.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener ready to expand your palette or a beginner searching for low-maintenance plants that deliver high-impact results, ornamental grasses offer endless possibilities. Let these resources guide you in choosing and using these graceful, resilient plants to transform your landscape into one that feels alive in every season.