Expert Dr. Brian Maynard of Sustainable Landscapes Program Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Rhode Island names 5 Oranmental Grasses:
Native grasses were members of the local flora before European settlers arrived
Exotic grasses are introduced plants from other states or countries
1. Fescue: This cool season, clump-forming grass requires protection from the hot afternoon sun. Blue foliage forms are the most popular. Division in the early spring is often required to restore vigor. Regular fertilization may benefit this group. (exotic)
2. Miscanthus: Considered the showiest group of warm season, clump-forming grasses, it has very showy flowers. A large group of grasses with considerable variability in height, blade width, etc. Select cultivars carefully to insure adequate hardiness and adaptation to your site. (exotic)
3. Switchgrass: This native, warm-season, clump-forming group is becoming more popular as new cultivars become available. Cultivars with red fall color and blue foliaged upright cultivars are popular. (native)
4. Fountaingrass: Most members are warm season, clump forming grasses. Some may become weedy, especially south of Rhode Island. Both annual and perennial cultivars are valuable in the landscape. Flowers are showy and are foxtail-like in their appearance. (exotic)
5. Big Bluestem: Very tolerant, perennial bunch grass. The stem base turns to a blue-purple as it matures. (native) 
Grasses that are native to the Providence, R.I. tend to be heartier and align with the conditions of growing season.
No comments:
Post a Comment