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Indian woodoats

Scientific Name: Chasmanthium latifolium

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: MI (wild-oats)

       

Chasmanthium latifolium: A Graceful Ornamental Grass

Chasmanthium latifolium, commonly known as Woodoats, Inland sea oats, Northern sea oats, or Indian woodoats, is a captivating ornamental grass celebrated for its graceful appearance and adaptability.

Considerations for Pets

  • The leaves are narrow and can be bamboo-like.
  • The plant produces seeds.

Considerations for Children

  • The leaves are narrow and can be bamboo-like.
  • The plant produces seeds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Chasmanthium latifolium (Michx.) Yates
  • Synonyms: Uniola latifolia (formerly)
  • Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
  • Genus: Chasmanthium

Common Names

  • Woodoats
  • Inland sea oats
  • Northern sea oats
  • Indian woodoats
  • River oats
  • Wild oats
  • Flathead oats
  • Upland Oats
  • Upland Sea Oats
  • Spangle Grass
  • Broadleaf Uniola
  • Bamboo Grass

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to North America, specifically the eastern United States.
  • Prefers moist soils and partial shade.
  • Commonly found along stream and river edges.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • A perennial grass that grows to approximately 1 meter (3ft 3in) in height.
  • Forms clumping mounds up to 4 feet tall.
  • Leaves are green to blue-green, arching, and turn shades of gold or bronze in the fall.
  • Considered a warm-season grass.

Ecological Role

  • May self-sow somewhat in the garden.
  • Provides good grazing for wildlife and livestock.
  • Has been planted to help stabilize sandy dunes.

Quirky Facts

  • Despite some common names, it's not considered a "true oat."
  • Was a staple of the Cocopah Indians in the desert southwest of the United States.

Further Information

  • USDA NRCS PLANTS Database
  • Discover Life
  • Dave's Garden