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Saccharum ravennae (Ravenna grass)

Saccharum ravennae Photo/Illustration: Steve Silk


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Saccharum ravennae SAK-har-um rah-VEN-nay Common Name: Ravenna grass Genus: Saccharum
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.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Saccharums most notably add vertical accents to their surroundings. They are effective as specimens, for the back of a border or grass garden, and for winter interest. 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. 
 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 midspring or early summer.
Height 10 ft. to 15 ft.
Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun Only
Moisture Dry to Medium
Maintenance Low
Tolerance Deer Tolerant;Drought Tolerant;Frost Tolerant
Characteristics Self Seeds; Showy Flowers; Showy Foliage; Showy Seed Heads
Bloom Time Late Summer; Summer
Flower Color Brown Flower; Purple/ Lavender Flower
Uses , Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Naturalizing, Specimen Plant/ Focal Point
Seasonal Interest , Winter Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type ,Grasses

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