Tall Oatgrass

(Arrhenatherum elatius)

Tall Oatgrass (Arrhenatherum elatius)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Arrhenatherum elatius, commonly known as Tall Oatgrass, is a deciduous perennial grass native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and meadows across Europe, extending into North Africa and Western Asia. It can reach up to 150 centimeters (59 inches) in height, with a tufted growth habit. The leaves of Tall Oatgrass are bright green, broad, slightly hairy, and have a rough texture. It produces airy panicles of spikelets that flower from June to September, which are not particularly showy but add a delicate texture to the landscape.

Tall Oatgrass is valued for its adaptability and is used for soil stabilization, as well as in wildflower meadows and naturalistic plantings. It is also utilized as forage for livestock. This grass thrives in a range of light conditions, from part shade to full sun, and prefers medium amounts of water with well-drained soil. While it is not known for significant disease or pest issues, its potential for invasiveness must be considered, as it can spread aggressively outside its native range. Gardeners should consult local regulations before planting to ensure it is not a threat to native ecosystems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, grasslands, and meadows across Europe, extending into North Africa and Western Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Bulbous Oatgrass, False Oat Grass, Onion Couch, Onion Twitch, Onion-Root Twitch, False Oatgrass, Meadow Oatgrass, Draphavre, Glatthafer, Fromentin

Scientific Names: , Arrhenatherum elatius, Arrhenatherum elatius f. elatius, Arrhenatherum elatior, Avena elatior, Arrhenatherum avenaceum, Arrhenatherum elatius var. flavescens, Arrhenatherum elatius var. subhirsutum, Avena avenaceum, Arrhenatherum elatius var. brachycladum

GBIF Accepted Name: Arrhenatherum elatius (L.) P.Beauv. ex J.Presl & C.Presl.