Types of Ornamental Grasses for Michigan

Feather Reed Grass

• Feather reed grass (Calamagrostis acutifolia 'Karl Foerster') is cited as a good grass for Michigan by the Michigan State University Extension site. The grass grows to a mature height of 5 to 6 feet with a 2 to 2 ½ feet spread. The cool-season grass grows rapidly to form clumps of fresh green foliage and blooms with loose, tall plumes of bronze-purple flowers. The flowers change to a gold-wheat color in the fall and winter, extending the visual interest of the grass through the winter. Feather reed grass is low care and is commonly used to create screens and as background in perennial beds. Plant the grass in spring and water well until established. The grass prefers areas of full sun and moist, well-drained soil.

Japanese Silver Grass

• Japanese silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis variegates) is recommended by the University of Michigan Extension site as a good ornamental grass for the state. The grass is hardy in the Michigan winters and retains its attractive plumes well into spring. A number of cultivars are available featuring striped and banded, fine or coarse textured foliage. The grass grows to a mature height of 5 to 8 feet and blooms with purple-bronze plumes which gradually change to a silver color in late summer. Plant Japanese silver grass in moist, rich soil. However the grass tolerates a wide variety of soil types. Though the grass prefers areas of sun, it is moderately tolerant of shade as well.

Switch Grass

• The University of Michigan Extension site recommends switch grass as one of the good ornamental grasses for Michigan. Switch grass is a highly adaptable, native American grass and comes in a range of heights from 4 to 7 feet and different fall color depending on cultivar. The grass blooms with pink-green to burgundy plumes in summer. The grass prefers a moist, fertile soil and areas of full sun. However switch grass adapts easily to a range of other soil types. Mulch in winter to conserve moisture.