The Story
Plant Bio
Saccharum ravennae, commonly known as Ravenna grass or plume grass, is a large, clump-forming ornamental grass prized for its towering flower plumes and fine-textured, arching foliage. It is often used as a substitute for the more invasive Pampas Grass.
Reaching heights of over 12 feet in bloom, this grass provides dramatic vertical interest. Its foliage turns bronze and orange in fall, and the plumes persist through winter, offering excellent four-season appeal.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
144 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Low to Medium
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southern Europe, Western Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Late summer – Early fall
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
- Tuck young plants or cuttings into the soil, spacing them 3-4 feet apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer for optimal growth.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or late fall to promote health.
Pro Tip
Ensure ample space for this tall grass to prevent wind damage and promote vigorous growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 💧
- Provide full sun for best foliage and flowering
- Mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds
- Divide clumps to rejuvenate the plant every few years
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in overly wet or poorly drained soil
- Refrain from fertilizing late in the growing season
- Don’t prune excessively during the growing season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Ravenna Grass questions
What zones can Ravenna Grass grow in?
Ravenna Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Ravenna Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Ravenna Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Ravenna Grass bloom?
Ravenna Grass typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Ravenna Grass need full sun?
Ravenna Grass does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Ravenna Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Ravenna Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Ravenna Grass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.