Giant Bent Awn Grass Seeds

Giant Bent Awn Plume Grass is one of the most spectacular ornamental grasses available, producing towering flower plumes that rise dramatically above massive fountains of graceful foliage. Native to the Mediterranean region and parts of western Asia, this magnificent grass has become a favorite among landscape designers seeking dramatic height, movement, and year-round architectural interest.

Often compared to Pampas Grass, Ravenna Grass offers a more upright and refined appearance. Mature plants can produce dozens of enormous silver-white plumes that sway elegantly above the foliage, creating one of the most impressive displays in the ornamental garden.

Plant Characteristics

• Botanical Name: Erianthus ravennae
• Common Names: Giant Bent Awn Plume Grass, Ravenna Grass, Hardy Pampas Grass
• Plant Type: Warm-Season Ornamental Grass
• Mature Height: 8 to 12 feet
• Mature Spread: 4 to 6 feet
• Growth Rate: Fast
• USDA Zones: 5 to 9
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil

Container Growing

While young plants may be grown in large containers for several seasons, Giant Bent Awn Plume Grass eventually becomes too large for long-term container culture and is best suited for landscape planting.

• Use containers at least 24 inches in diameter.
• Provide excellent drainage.
• Use a rich, well-draining potting mix.
• Place in full sun.
• Transplant to the landscape as the plant matures.

Young container specimens can still provide impressive ornamental value before reaching their full size potential.

Landscape Uses

• Specimen plantings
• Large borders
• Property screening
• Privacy plantings
• Mediterranean landscapes
• Naturalistic gardens
• Architectural focal points

Its immense height and dramatic plumes make it ideal for creating vertical interest in the landscape.

Germination Information

• Sow seeds on the soil surface or lightly cover.
• Maintain temperatures between 70°F and 85°F.
• Keep evenly moist during germination.
• Provide bright light.
• Germination generally occurs within 14 to 30 days.

Warm temperatures and consistent moisture encourage rapid seedling development.

Growing Information

• Plant in full sun.
• Provide good drainage.
• Tolerates heat and drought exceptionally well.
• Cut back old growth in late winter.
• Requires very little maintenance once established.

This species thrives in hot summer conditions and often becomes more impressive with age.

Pollinator and Wildlife Value

The dense clumps provide shelter for birds and beneficial wildlife, while the seed heads offer seasonal food sources for various bird species.

Mature plants can create valuable habitat and winter cover in larger landscapes.

Deer Resistance

Ravenna Grass is generally considered highly deer resistant. The coarse foliage is rarely browsed by deer.

Drought Tolerance

Once established, Giant Bent Awn Plume Grass exhibits outstanding drought tolerance and performs exceptionally well in challenging summer conditions.

Historical and Cultural Tidbits

For centuries, large plume grasses have been admired throughout Europe and the Mediterranean region for their ability to provide dramatic texture and movement in the landscape. Ravenna Grass became especially popular in formal gardens during the nineteenth century.

As ornamental grasses gained popularity in the late twentieth century, Ravenna Grass became one of the most widely planted large grass species due to its impressive size and relatively easy maintenance.

Its towering plumes have made it a favorite feature in estate gardens, public parks, and botanical collections around the world.

Botanical Facts

• The species name "ravennae" refers to Ravenna, Italy.
• Mature flower plumes can exceed 2 feet in length.
• Flower stalks may reach heights of 12 feet or more.
• The foliage forms a dense upright fountain shape.
• Plumes mature from silver-white to tan and often persist through winter.

Interesting Fact

A mature specimen can produce flower stalks taller than many small trees. In late summer and autumn, the giant plumes can tower above nearby shrubs and perennials, creating a dramatic skyline effect visible from great distances.

Seedman Note

For gardeners seeking maximum impact, few ornamental grasses rival Giant Bent Awn Plume Grass. Its towering height, graceful movement, and spectacular silver plumes create a commanding presence that transforms ordinary landscapes into unforgettable garden scenes.

Ornamental Grass Rating: ★★★★★

A magnificent giant ornamental grass prized for its towering silver plumes, architectural beauty, drought tolerance, and commanding landscape presence.