Achnatherum hymenoides
- Indian Ricegrass
AKA Oryzopsis hymenoides
It is often said that it takes a real grass lover to appreciate
the western native grasses. Not so with Indian ricegrass,
because anyone who grows this to a full-size blooming clump
can't help but snip those beautiful flowers for indoor arrangements.
And let's not forget to mention the mesmerizing effect of
the delicate panicles as they dance in the slightest breeze.
Yes, Indian ricegrass seeds are edible and tasty, not just
to humans, but more importantly to birds and small mammals.
Indian ricegrass is particulary nice when used as an edging
plant along property lines, but please note that it is a
slow-grower.
Description: cool season; clump forming
Foliage - green; narrow; 45-60 cm (18-24") tall
Flowers - early spring; 60-75 cm (24-30") tall
Form - both flowers and leaves are upright and arching
Ideal growing conditions: open areas,
sun or part shade, no excessive water, wide range of soil
types
Zone: 3-9 (find
your zone; further info on plant hardiness)
Partner with: Amsonia,
Bouteloua, Buchloe
dactyloides, Festuca
arizonica
Suggested uses: containers, clumps, specimen,
groups, drifts, border, edging
Recommended spacing between plants: 60-120cm
(24-48") why such a difference?
Season of interest: late spring through
winter
When to plant or divide: early to mid
spring only; zones 7, 8 and 9 are okay for fall planting
Drought tolerance rating: 1 (water to
root depth once a month); further
info
Native to: western North America,
Pronunciation: Achnatherum (ack-NATH-er-um)
hymenoides (hye-men-OY-deez)
More ornamental grasses
Compare Achnatherum hymenoides to our other grasses
in this handy chart.
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