Product Description
Erianthus ravennae
Common Name: Ravenna Grass, Plume Grass,
Northern Pampas Grass, hardy pampas grass.
Zones 5 to 8 (perhaps 4 to 10);
Full Sun.
Mature size 9 to 12 (perhaps to 20) feet height, spreads 6 to 8 feet.
Growth Rate: Moderate; upright arching form, Easy to grow
Coarse to medium texture gray-green leaves. In late summer, flower spikes produce two foot long silvery flower panicles with hints of purple; panicles lighten to white in fall. The fall color of Erianthus is just as spectacular as the feathery plumes. Multiple colors including orange, tan, purple, and beige blend throughout the plant. The brown, dried stalks form looming shadows in winter, and are especially beautiful when planted with a backdrop of dark green or with the white of snow.
Part of the sugarcane family, Erianthus ravennaeis a giant of the ornamental world. Considered by many to be the best substitute for Pampas in northern regions, they share similar plumes and height. Outstanding choice as accent or architectural specimen, its imposing size and durability also makes it a good selection as a tall screen or windbreak.
This species is the most cold hardy and toughest of the Erianthus genus. Known for being very adaptable, this plant will grow in nearly any soil as long as it has full sun. It is drought tolerant, but prefers fertile, moist, well drained soil.
Plumes are often used in fresh and dried flower arrangements. Attributes: border plants, cut and dried flowers, drought tolerant, mass planting, salt tolerant. Deer resistant.
Not available for shipment to CA
Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 3 inches deep x 2 inches wide.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
