Genus Saccharum (Plume grass, Sugarcane)

Saccharum ravennae Photo/Illustration: Steve Silk

SAK-har-um Common Name: Plume grass, Sugarcane

When not grown commercially to produce sugarcane (S. officinarum), these grasses are grown ornamentally for their large stature, linear foliage, and vertical, plume-like inflorescences. They are found in moist habitats of valleys and hillsides, most often in warm temperate and tropicals regions.  Many species will self-sow in warm climates. Some species are native to North America
Noteworthy characteristics: Saccharums most notably add vertical accents to their surroundings, and are effective as a specimens, for the back of a border or grass garden, and for winter interest. 
Care: Grow in average soil in full sun. Protect from strong winds, and mulch crowns in winter with a thick, dry mulch.
Propagation: Sow seed in spring in a cold frame or greenhouse. Divide in mid-spring or early summer.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Saccharum

Saccharum arundinaceum
(Plume grass, Hardy sugar cane) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

1

2

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11

In late summer, this large, clump-forming species bears huge plumes of delicate pink flower clusters, which eventually fade to silver.

Saccharum ravennae
(Ravenna grass) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

This large, clump-forming grass has linear leaves with central white stripes. In late summer it bears huge, purplish-bronze flower clusters, which eventually fade to silver. It resents high fertility and shows considerable drought tolerance.

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