Inland sea oats (Chasmanthium latifolium) is a distinctive and versatile native ornamental grass. It provides visual appeal with its unique foliage and seed heads, making it a popular choice for various garden designs. This grass is also valued for its adaptability to different growing conditions.
What are Inland Sea Oats Seeds?
Inland sea oats seeds are characterized by their flat, oat-like appearance, which gives the plant its common name. Initially, these seeds appear green on the plant, gradually transitioning to an ivory, then a bronze or coppery hue as they mature. They are arranged in drooping spikelets on slender, arching branches. These seeds are the primary method of propagation for inland sea oats.
Collecting Inland Sea Oats Seeds
The optimal time to collect inland sea oats seeds is from late summer through fall, typically when they have matured and turned a bronze or tan color. Mature seeds will feel dry to the touch and are easily removed from the plant. You can gather them by gently stripping the seeds from the stalks or by clipping the entire seed heads. After collection, clean the seeds by removing any chaff or debris.
Storing Inland Sea Oats Seeds
Store inland sea oats seeds to maintain their viability. Seeds should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark location. Paper bags or envelopes are suitable containers, as they allow for air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. Cold, moist stratification is beneficial for these seeds to break their natural dormancy. This process involves exposing the seeds to cold temperatures and moisture, mimicking natural winter conditions.
Planting Inland Sea Oats Seeds
Planting inland sea oats seeds can be done in the fall for natural cold stratification, or in early spring after artificial stratification. For artificial stratification, seeds can be placed in a moist medium, such as sand or peat, in a sealed plastic bag and refrigerated at around 40°F for 60 to 90 days. When planting, choose a site with part shade to full shade, though it can tolerate some sun with adequate moisture. Inland sea oats prefer moist, well-drained soils, including loams, sands, and clays.
Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep, or lightly press them into the soil surface, as some light can aid germination. Space seeds or seedlings 12 to 30 inches apart to allow for mature growth. Maintain consistent moisture in the soil, especially during the germination phase, which occurs within 7 to 14 days at temperatures around 70°F. Seedlings should be kept moist until established.
Benefits of Inland Sea Oats
Inland sea oats offer several benefits:
Ornamental value: Unique, flat seed heads resemble oats, and green foliage transitions to yellow-gold, coppery bronze, or purplish bronze in fall and winter.
Ecological support: Provides food and habitat for wildlife, including seeds for small mammals and birds, and foliage for cover. It also serves as a larval host plant for butterfly species like the Northern Pearly-Eye and various skippers.
Erosion control: Effective in riparian areas and on slopes due to robust root systems and dense colonies.
Low-maintenance: Once established, it adapts to a range of soil and light conditions.