Chasmanthium latifolium – Northern Sea Oats

General Information: A native perennial clumping grass species that frequently inhabits moist woods, stream banks, and river sides. Pendulous clusters of green seeds develop in July, enlarging and filling out by autumn. The seed heads can be cut and make an excellent addition to dry floral arrangements. They are also edible, much in the same way as traditional Oats, and are a staple food crop of some Indigenous Peoples. Despite the name “Northern Sea Oats,” the center of this plant’s distribution is the Southeastern and Central US, often around the Lower Mississippi River Valley, with populations also known from Manitoba and Mexico. This grass is both functional and beautiful. The blades and stems can be cut back two or three times per year as forage, mulch, or animal bedding. The dried seeds are also useful for attracting birds and can be left on the plant throughout the winter, or collected and added to a bird seed mix in areas with deep snowfalls.

Edible Qualities: Seeds can be prepared in the same way as Wild Oats. Mature seed heads can be collected in late summer and fall, once they are ripened, and ground into flour. Whole seeds can also be added to dough to give texture to bread, or added to other dishes that call for seeds. Like most other staple grains, the seeds must be winnowed before they are of any edible value.

Cultivation details: These plants prefer areas that maintain a constant level of moisture. Consider them for planting near a downspout, in a rain garden, in low spots, or along gullies, steams, lakes, ponds, and rivers. They are especially useful in low spots and ruts in lawns that are difficult to mow. A very easy species to plant, care for, and cultivate. Plants can be divided in early spring or allowed to re-seed on bare ground in late fall.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full to dappled sun. Prefers moist to wet soils. Does not tolerate dry soils. Prefers sandy or loamy soils. Does not tolerate heavy clay soils unless thoroughly amended with organic matter. Succeeds when soils have a deep, rich layer of organic matter. Suitable for mildly acidic, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils.