Part of the Poaceae family, River Oats shimmers beautifully in the wind throughout summer and fall. This ornamental grass is deciduous and blooms from June through October, showing spiked panicles that start off green, fading to tan, then finally to purplish copper. Not only do birds and small mammals love the seeds, but it is also a host plant for Northern Pearly-Eye caterpillars and many skipper caterpillars. As the name implies, River Oats prefers soil to be moist, making it a good contender for rain gardens and ponds. However, it can be weedy, but seedlings are easily plucked before established. Once the plant is established, it is hard to move, as it has a deep taproot. This also makes it good for erosion control. Deer tend to avoid this plant.
