Ornamental Grasses for Backdrops

Ravenna Grass

• Saccharum ravennae, often called plume grass, is an ornamental grass that has a height of 6 to 12 feet and a spread of 4 to 6 feet. Native to North Africa and the Mediterranean, it is tolerant of drought. Its height and ability to withstand low-water conditions makes it an excellent backdrop plant, especially where there is limited access to irrigation. It prefers full sun and dry to medium-moist soil, but will not thrive in wet conditions. During late summer, purple-bronze plumes appear. Plumes last through winter, gradually lightening in color. Because of its height, this is plant is ideal for screening.

Eulalia grass

• Miscanthus sinensis, Morning Light, is a low-maintenance grass that handles full sun to part shade. With a height of 4 to 6 feet and a spread of 2 to 4 feet, it is an excellent option as a screen plant. It handles a wide variety of soils, but grows best when soil is kept moist. Morning light has an upright growth habit. This cultivar has thin, variegated leaves that have a silver appearance. Late summer brings small reddish flowers that gradually turn to white during the winter. As winter approaches, leaves fade to a light brown. This plant lends interest to a number of garden situations. From cottage gardens to native meadow gardens, it is an attractive addition no matter the venue.

Blue Oat Grass

• Native to the Mediterranean, Helictotrichon sempervirens, is a silver-blue grass with a height and width of 2 to 3 feet. Straw-colored flowers emerge above the foliage of this plant during spring. Best suited to rich, well-drained soil and full-sun conditions, it has moderate water needs. The color of this plant can be maximized when placed with plants or garden decor that bring out the blue-grey color.

Bowles' golden sedge

• Carex elata 'Aurea,' is an brightly colored grass with yellow leaves that are edged in green. Low-growing, it reaches a maximum height of 2.5 feet. It prefers full to partial shade, rich soil and high moisture. Best grown in acid soil, it will tolerate average soil circumstances, however, it may not reach full growth. An asset in shady spots, the yellow of the foliage attracts and reflects light.

Creating A Backdrop

• The backdrop of the garden is best imagined as the setting or framework for your yard. But, when done correctly, the backdrop creates a finished effect, as well. Additional tools can be utilized to emphasize the backdrop. Back-lighting, plays up the linear quality inherent in many grasses and dramatizes shadow and light. Plant selection and placement are important. Intermixing a variety of grasses tends to have a more pleasing effect than sticking with one type.