Ravennagrass
Saccharum ravennae
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
144 inches
Width
72 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Long-lived perennial grass
Native To
Southern Europe, Western Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
A large, clump-forming ornamental grass known for its towering height and impressive floral plumes. It provides strong vertical structure and winter interest in the landscape. Often called 'Hardy Pampas Grass,' it is a more cold-hardy and non-invasive alternative to Cortaderia selloana in many regions. Its plumes emerge purplish-bronze before maturing to a silvery-white.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site in full sun with ample room to grow.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the pot.
- Place the plant in the hole so the crown is level with the soil.
- Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
- Water regularly during the first season to establish.
- Cut back hard in late winter before new growth begins.
Pro Tip
Give it plenty of space; this is a massive grass that will quickly overwhelm smaller perennials.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Plant in full sun for the strongest stems.
- Provide water during its first year to establish a deep root system.
- Wear gloves and long sleeves when cutting back, as leaves can be sharp.
- Leave the foliage standing for winter interest.
Don't
- Do not plant in shade, which causes weak, floppy growth.
- Do not over-fertilize, as it is unnecessary and can cause flopping.
- Do not plant too close to buildings, paths, or other plants.
- Avoid planting in waterlogged soil.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Ravennagrass questions
What zones can Ravennagrass grow in?
Ravennagrass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Ravennagrass deer resistant?
Yes — Ravennagrass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Ravennagrass bloom?
Ravennagrass typically blooms in late summer through mid-fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Ravennagrass need full sun?
Ravennagrass does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Ravennagrass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Ravennagrass 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
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Ravennagrass 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.
