Zebra Grass: Ornamental Grass, Gardening, Grass Seeds And Plant Care

Using an ornamental grass gives a whole new meaning to landscaping. It is often viewed as a decorative accent, screen, or border to cottage gardens and other natural areas. Because of its verdant appeal, ornamental grass is also added as part of garden peripheries. Different types of ornamental grass are also known to flourish in hardiness zones, which contribute more to their popularity in gardening. But of all the types of ornamental grass, Zebra Grass usually stands out as an outdoor display. It never fails to fascinate nature-lovers because of its striking bands. Its appearance also makes Zebra Grass an eye-catching feature of most gardens, yards, or landscapes.

As a native of East Asia and West Africa, Zebra grass is also used as a thatching material to help build temple homes and roofs. The dark green color of its leaves is adorned with golden yellow stripes, making this distinct pattern a formidable part of its aesthetic appeal. The approximate growth of Zebra Grass reaches up to six or seven feet in height with a width of three to five feet in diameter or at times, five to 10 feet wide. This ornamental grass may grow in different soil types, though the most ideal is a fertile soil with enough amount of moisture. Because Zebra Grass receives a moderate rating for drought tolerance, there is usually less maintenance for plant care compared to other types of ornamental grass. This warm season grass thrives in warm weather. However, it can also withstand heavy snowfalls and may keep standing still even against a strong wind. The leaves normally turn into richer shades of gold during the fall season until winter. These natural characteristics of Zebra Grass make it perfect for everyday gardening.

Though Zebra Grass is said to be a fast grower and usually requires little maintenance, certain requirements for plant care should be properly observed. As such, planting bare roots of the plant should be done near the end of a spring season up to early summer. The warm soil is said to benefit its growth, the same way with corn seeds. Planting the roots of Zebra Grass earlier than recommended may result in poor growth and the inability of its roots to withstand the cold temperature during winter. Moreover, the root may possibly suffer from deterioration. Preferably, it should be planted in a moist soil with a light requirement of full sun to partial shade. The 4-9 hardiness zones are also ideal for its carefree growth. When to harvest the seeds of Zebra Grass should be taken into consideration, as the seeds of an ornamental grass may help in propagation.

The division of the Zebra Grass also depends on good timing. It is usually done during spring at a sign of new growth. This ornamental grass is also cut back six inches from the crown. The spring bulbs may blend well with the tanning color of Zebra Grass leaves, and most gardening enthusiasts and landscape artists may refuse to cut them back unless there is a hint of a budding growth. The space between Zebra Grass should be kept from 125 to 175 centimeters to sustain its good texture and form.


Sources:
Ray, K.. "Types of Ornamental Grass to Beautify Your Garden Landscape." Associated Content. 26 Apr. 2006. 28 Nov. 2007. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/28602/typ es_of_ornamental_grass_to_beautify.html

Neal, Kevin. "Miscanthus sinensis Zebrinus." The Green Beam. 2001. Branch-Smith Publishing. 28 Nov. 2007. http://www.greenbeam.com/features/plant091701.stm< br />
S., Sophia. "Garden Idea: Designing an Ornamental Grass Garden." Associated Content. 1 Jul. 2007. 28 Nov. 2007. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/195429/ga rden_idea_designing_an_ornamental.html

"Miscanthus sinensis 'Zebrinus' - Zebra Grass." Bluestem Nursery. 28 Nov. 2007. http://www.bluestem.ca/miscanthus-zebrinus.htm

Evans, Erv. "Miscanthus sinensis Zebrinus." 2000. NC State University. 28 Nov. 2007. http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsh eets/ornamental_grass/miscanthus_sin-zebrinus.html