River Oats (Chasmanthium latifolium)
River Oats is an attractive grass and a host plant for 6 species of butterflies and moths in our area (illinoiswildflower.info). Its status is listed as critically imperiled in Michigan (mnfi.anr.msu.edu), which is always interesting considering that it can be a vigorous spreader. It is often used to prevent soil erosion or as a low-maintenance grass for shade. From what I understand, River Oats are fairly easy to remove and transplant elsewhere.
Photo credit: Melissa McMasters
River Oats is an attractive grass and a host plant for 6 species of butterflies and moths in our area (illinoiswildflower.info). Its status is listed as critically imperiled in Michigan (mnfi.anr.msu.edu), which is always interesting considering that it can be a vigorous spreader. It is often used to prevent soil erosion or as a low-maintenance grass for shade. From what I understand, River Oats are fairly easy to remove and transplant elsewhere.
Photo credit: Melissa McMasters
River Oats is an attractive grass and a host plant for 6 species of butterflies and moths in our area (illinoiswildflower.info). Its status is listed as critically imperiled in Michigan (mnfi.anr.msu.edu), which is always interesting considering that it can be a vigorous spreader. It is often used to prevent soil erosion or as a low-maintenance grass for shade. From what I understand, River Oats are fairly easy to remove and transplant elsewhere.
Photo credit: Melissa McMasters
Life Cycle: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Partial
Soil Moisture: Medium/wet—Med
Height: 1.5-4 feet
Plant Spacing: 1-2 feet
Bloom Time: July-Sept
Bloom Color: Yellow
Advantages: Deer Resistant, Recommended, but can be vigorous
Host: 6 species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (illinoiswildflower.info)
Species of Concern: State Status: Presumed extirpated (legally 'threatened' if rediscovered), State Rank: Critically imperiled (mnfi.anr.msu.edu)
