The Best Grass for Steep Banks

Identification

• The University of Minnesota Extension recommends the use of side-oats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula) for steep banks. It lists silver banner grass (Miscanthus sacchariflorus) as among the best choices for holding soil on wet stream banks.

Description

• Silver banner grass is a native of China and has a running growth habit with 10-inch-long leaves on tall stems. The grass has a mature height of 4 to 5 feet and produces 8- to 10-inch-long silvery panicles during summer. Side-oats grama has a bunch type of growth and reaches 2 to 2-½ feet tall. The coarse textured grass is blue green in color and produces very small, stiff spikes along the stalks.

Cultural Conditions

• For soil stabilization, silver banner grass can be planted in the moist to wet soil found on steep streams, rivers and pond banks. The grass thrives in areas of sun and has a rapid growth rate. Side-oats grama adapts well to a variety of soil types, including rocky and shallow ground. The low-maintenance grass has few pest relates issues.