Oatgrass: A European Beauty That’s Made Itself at Home
If you’ve ever wandered through a meadow or naturalized area and noticed tall, graceful grasses swaying in the breeze with delicate, oat-like seed heads, you might have encountered Arrhenatherum, commonly known as oatgrass. This perennial grass has quite the travel story – originally from Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, it’s now found flourishing across North America from coast to coast.
What Is Oatgrass?
Oatgrass is a perennial grass that forms attractive clumps and can reach impressive heights. True to its common name, it produces seed heads that bear a striking resemblance to oats, creating a soft, feathery appearance that adds texture and movement to any landscape. As a member of the grass family, it’s wind-pollinated and has adapted remarkably well to a wide variety of climates and conditions.
Where You’ll Find It Growing
This adaptable grass has made itself quite comfortable across an impressive range of locations. You can find oatgrass growing in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. It’s also established itself in several Canadian provinces including British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland.
Should You Plant Oatgrass?
The decision to plant oatgrass comes down to your garden goals and philosophy about native versus non-native plants. Here are some things to consider:
The Case for Oatgrass
- Low maintenance: Once established, oatgrass is remarkably drought-tolerant and requires minimal care
- Attractive appearance: The feathery seed heads and arching foliage create beautiful texture in the landscape
- Erosion control: Its root system helps stabilize soil on slopes and in naturalized areas
- Hardy nature: Thrives in USDA zones 4-9, making it suitable for most temperate climates
- Versatile growing conditions: Adapts to full sun or partial shade and various soil types
Things to Keep in Mind
While oatgrass isn’t considered invasive or noxious, it is a non-native species that reproduces readily on its own. This means it can self-seed and establish in areas beyond where you originally planted it. Some gardeners appreciate this naturalized spread, while others prefer more controlled growth.
Native Alternatives to Consider
If you’re committed to native plantings, consider these beautiful native grasses that offer similar aesthetic appeal:
- Little bluestem – Provides lovely fall color and texture
- Prairie dropseed – Forms elegant clumps with fragrant foliage
- Buffalo grass – Excellent for naturalized meadows
- Sideoats grama – Features attractive, oat-like seed heads
How to Grow Oatgrass Successfully
If you decide oatgrass is right for your landscape, you’ll be pleased to know it’s quite easy to grow:
Planting Tips
- Location: Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Oatgrass tolerates various soil types but prefers well-draining conditions
- Spacing: Plant clumps 2-3 feet apart to allow for mature spread
- Best planting time: Spring or fall for optimal establishment
Care and Maintenance
- Watering: Water regularly the first growing season; drought-tolerant once established
- Fertilizing: Generally unnecessary – this grass thrives in average soil conditions
- Pruning: Cut back to 4-6 inches in late winter before new growth begins
- Managing spread: Remove seed heads before they mature if you want to prevent self-seeding
Garden Design Ideas
Oatgrass works beautifully in several landscape settings:
- Cottage gardens: Pairs well with wildflowers and informal plantings
- Meadow gardens: Creates natural-looking drifts and provides habitat
- Erosion control: Excellent for slopes and areas prone to soil erosion
- Mixed borders: Adds texture and movement as a backdrop to flowering plants
The Bottom Line
Oatgrass offers an easy-care option for gardeners looking to add graceful texture and movement to their landscapes. While it’s not native to North America, it’s established itself as a relatively benign addition to many ecosystems. Whether you choose to embrace this European transplant or opt for native alternatives, the key is selecting grasses that align with your garden goals and maintenance preferences. Whatever you decide, you’ll be adding the timeless beauty of ornamental grasses to your outdoor space.
