Chasmanthium latifolium
spangle grass
Unusual, flattened flower spikes give this ornamental grass a distinctive look, swaying on slender stems above a loose clump of fresh green foliage.
Chasmanthium latifolium produces delicate, dangling seedheads from late summer, each one shaped like a flattened spearhead, with green tones gradually taking on bronze and purple shades as they mature. The broad leaves turn amber-gold in autumn, and the seedheads dry well, making them useful for dried flower arrangements.
Ideal for borders with light shade or a sunnier spot where the soil retains moisture, this spreading grass brings texture and movement to the garden well into autumn.
Chasmanthium latifolium produces delicate, dangling seedheads from late summer, each one shaped like a flattened spearhead, with green tones gradually taking on bronze and purple shades as they mature. The broad leaves turn amber-gold in autumn, and the seedheads dry well, making them useful for dried flower arrangements.
Ideal for borders with light shade or a sunnier spot where the soil retains moisture, this spreading grass brings texture and movement to the garden well into autumn.
How to care for Chasmanthium latifolium:
Plant in sun or partial shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first growing season and during prolonged dry spells, as it prefers soil that does not dry out completely.
Once established, it requires only modest maintenance (an early spring fertiliser dressing and mulch), and watering during prolonged dry spells. Leave the attractive, flattened seedheads standing over winter for added interest, then cut the old stems back to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Once established, it requires only modest maintenance (an early spring fertiliser dressing and mulch), and watering during prolonged dry spells. Leave the attractive, flattened seedheads standing over winter for added interest, then cut the old stems back to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.9m
Eventual spread:
0.45m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
