Some types of ornamental grasses do spread, while others form clumps. It’s important to know what type of ornamental grass you have chosen so that you can properly allocate the space for it in your yard and avoid planting an invasive species.
There are two main types of growth habits for ornamental grasses: clumping and spreading. Clumping grasses tend to grow in tight, dense clumps and do not spread beyond their original planting area. These types of grasses are often used as accents or focal points in a garden bed. Examples of clumping grasses include Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora) and Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides).
On the other hand, spreading grasses have a more aggressive growth habit and can spread to fill in a larger area over time. These grasses can be useful for ground cover or for filling in large spaces in the landscape. However, it’s important to choose spreading grasses carefully to avoid planting an invasive species that can take over your garden and crowd out other plants. Some common spreading grasses include Japanese Blood Grass (Imperata cylindrica) and Ribbon Grass (Phalaris arundinacea).
It’s worth noting that some ornamental grasses can exhibit both clumping and spreading tendencies, depending on growing conditions and other factors. For example, Miscanthus sinensis, commonly known as Maiden Grass, can form clumps in some areas but also has the potential to spread through underground rhizomes in more favorable conditions.
To determine whether an ornamental grass is likely to spread, you can research its specific growth habits and consult reputable sources such as gardening books or websites. Additionally, talking to local gardening experts or visiting a local nursery can provide valuable insights into the behavior of different grass varieties in your specific region.
In my personal experience, I have encountered both clumping and spreading ornamental grasses in my garden. I planted a variety of Feather Reed Grass, which formed a beautiful clump and provided a vertical element in my garden bed. On the other hand, I also planted Japanese Blood Grass as a ground cover, and it quickly spread to fill in a large area. While it created a lush carpet of red foliage, I had to keep a close eye on its growth to prevent it from encroaching on other plants.
It’s important to research and understand the growth habits of the specific ornamental grass you choose for your garden. By doing so, you can ensure that you allocate the proper space for it and avoid planting invasive species that can overtake your landscape.
