Ornamental Grasses

Explore perennial ornamental grasses for Canadian gardens, from compact plants for borders and containers to tall ornamental grasses for seasonal screening. Compare mature height, spread and hardiness before choosing a variety for your site.

For a sunny border, look for upright grasses such as little bluestem (Schizachyrium). For a smaller space, compare the mature width of compact varieties. In part shade, check the light and soil requirements on each plant page. If you want a screen, compare mature height and spacing and consider how much coverage you need outside the growing season.

Check the hardiness of each variety, especially for exposed sites or containers. Water new plantings while they establish, and adjust watering to the plant and soil conditions.

For ornamental grasses in pots on a partly shaded patio, try Japanese forest grass ‘Aureola’ (Hakonechloa macra). Its striped leaves arch over the rim. Use a pot with drainage holes, keep the mix evenly moist, and move the pot to a sheltered spot for winter.