| Ornamental grasses are grasses grown as ornamental plants. They have become increasingly popular in gardens in recent years. Along with true grasses (family Poaceae), the genus Carex (sedges) are often included in this classification. Their popularity relates both to their variety and to their three season contribution to the garden. Their long season is related to the lush new leaf growth in spring, and that the summer inflorescences (grass flowers and seed heads) are often dramatic and long lasting. Ornamental grasses can be brown, bluish, red, green, cream, and variegated. Almost all ornamental grasses are perennials, coming up in spring, from their roots, which have stored large quantities of energy, and in fall or winter go dormant. Some, notably bamboos, are evergreen, and a few are annuals. Sizes vary from a few centimeters up to several meters; the larger bamboos may reach 20 m or more tall. Some ornamental grasses are species that can be grown from seed. Many others are cultivars, and must be propagated by vegetative propagation of an existing plant. |
