Ravenna Grass

Colder climates have a hard time growing true pampas grass (Cortaderia Selloana). Ravenna Grass or hardy pampas grass is the answer. Structurally this grass is very similar in size and shape with tall white wispy plumes, but it can handle negative degree weather, unlike its original counterpart. Ravenna Grass is in another genus and species altogether. Erianthus ravennae is a hardy perennial to zones 5 to 9. These are one of the tallest ornamental grasses on the market reaching 9 to 12 feet tall.This grass is native to Southern Europe and North Africa. When planting, make sure to site this grass correctly because it can get very large. It works great functionally to screen eyesores or it has a more ornamental value when used as a mixed border or used in a dried flower arrangement. Be aware that in warmer southern zones 8 and above this grass self-seeds freely and has a tendency to be invasive. Ideally, Ravenna grass is geared more toward the more northern gardening zones where its growth is more in check.Ravenna Grass CareThis grass thrives in full sun and has average soil and watering needs. Areas that have more moisture with periods of dryness are preferred. Err on the side of caution with fertilizer. Too much fertilizer can cause stems to flop over. Adding an annual topdressing of compost will do the trick. In early Spring, cut back dead foliage to 6 inches above the crown. A new flush of growth will arise from the thatch.The most enjoyable part of this plant is when it has gone dormant in the Fall. All winter long dried golden brown plumes of grass wave in the wind. Think outside the box and recycle the dried grass stalks into free mulch for your vegetable garden when you clean up in the Spring.Ravenna Grass SpacingEnsure that this grass has room to grow. It is not only tall vertically, but it can reach 6 feet in diameter. The dense clumps of grass make for a phenomenal green wall. Space plants 72 to 96 inches apart in the landscape and enjoy!Ravenna Grass InformationUSDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9Plant Type: Perennial GrassSunlight Exposure: Full SunMature Height: 9 – 12 FeetMature Width: 6 – 8 FeetPlant Spacing: 6 – 8 FeetGrowth Habit: UprightFlower Color(s): WhiteSeasonal Interest: Late SummerFoliage Type: HerbaceousFoliage Color(s): GreenResists: DeerTolerates: DroughtFeatures: Cut Flowers, Deadheading Not Necessary, Foliage Interest, Low MaintenanceUses: Border Plant Cut Flower Dried Flower Specimen or Focal PointPlant Brand: Proven WinnersBotanical/Scientific Name: Erianthus ravennae