This native grass is probably the most tolerant of some shade. Produces handsome drooping seed heads that move in the slightest breeze. Hence the common name the seed heads are reminiscent of oats. They will emerge green then in summer turn tan and finally ending with a nice purplish color in fall. Also has nice fall color of coopery tones and will winter interest with attractive brown foliage. A good additional for pollinator gardens or if you'd like to attract birds. A larval host plant for several types of butterflies/moths like the pearly-eye. This grass does spread easily by seed and rhizomes.

Selected in 1994 as the NC Wildflower of the Year