Ornamental Grasses in Ohio

Zebra Grass

• Zebra grass (Miscenthus sinensis) is a recommended ornamental grass for Ohio, according to Ohio State University Extension. The grass grows to a mature height of about seven feet. The foliage is green with yellow bands. The burgundy plume-like flowers are eight feet in height and bloom in winter. Zebra grass grows in moderate to wet soil. Zebra grass is a low-maintenance plant and the blooms are long lasting. The ornamental grass is deer and rabbit resistant and well tolerant of drought, pollution, heat and humidity.

Porcupine Grass

• Porcupine grass (Miscanthus sinensis) is a cultivar of maiden grass, according to Ohio State University Extension. The grass grows to a mature height of about six feet. Porcupine grass grows best in full to moderate sun and moist soil. Porcupine grass has an upright growth habit. Its leaves are slender with a yellow band. The pinkish or coppery plume-like flowers rise above the foliage and last well into winter.

Eulalia Grass

• Eulalia grass (Miscanthus sacchariflorus) is native to China and Japan but grows well as an ornamental grass in Ohio, according to Ohio State University Extension. The grass grows to a mature height of four to six feet. It has green or green-yellow foliage. The white flower plumes are five to seven feet in height and bloom from summer to winter. Eulalia grass will spread six to 12 inches per year. It grows best in full sun or light shade. Eulalia grass requires regular watering and is tolerant of a wide variety of soils.