Ornamentals are also known as ornamental grass, but they are not grass. They can be termed as functional grass, which are colorful, hardy, all-time attractive and easy to maintain. These are very easy to grow, flower for longer time, are less infected by pests and diseases and are readily available. Here are a few ornamentals which are very popular in zone 5 gardens –
- Imperata cylindrica - Imperata cylindrica is also known as Red Baron, as it consists of bright red tips on green foliage. It is planted extensively for soil stabilization and ground coverage. It is grown near areas which is moist and where the soil is disturbed.
- Calamagrostis – Calamagrostis or red grass or small-reed is a perennial having hairless narrow leaves. It can grow up to 5-6 feet and requires a cool atmosphere. The bloom period is mid-June until fall.
- Grass – Flame – This is the common name suggested to the plant for its amazing orange-red fall color which grows around 3 to 4 feet. It can be grown in full sun as well as part shade. It can easily grow in average, medium, well-drained soil especially moist soil.
- Miscanthus sinensis – Morning Light – This is a perennial plant with purplish flower held above the foliage. It can grow up to a height of 4-5 feet and require warm conditions for growth.
- Golden Variegeted Hakone Grass – This is a mounded non-invasive rhizome grass which has bright yellow foliage with green lines. It prefers moist, well drained and fertile soil with half-day sun or light shade.
- Purple Moor grass – Purple Moor grass is a perennial grass which can grow up to 90 cm in height. The leaves are coarse, flat and long with slight hair present on top. It prefers light shade or full sun for growing well.
- Blue oat grass – This ornamental is pale green in color with a tinge of blue and can grow up to 2 feet tall. The bloom period is in May and lasts till August. It requires good soil drainage for proper growth.
- Golden Variegated Sweet Flag – It is a mounded, non-invasive rhizome grass, which has a fragrant and butter yellow sword like blades that look stunning. It can be grown in a wide range of soil in partial sun.
