Looking to spruce up your balcony or patio? Ornamental grasses are a total game-changer for container gardening. They add texture, movement, and that “wow” factor without needing a ton of maintenance. Here’s a breakdown of some of my favorite grasses for pots and tips on where they’ll be happiest in your outdoor space.
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++Broad-Leaved Cotton Grass (Eriophorum latifolium)
If you want something unique, check out Broad-Leaved Cotton Grass. It’s a member of the sedge family and is incredibly easy to care for. The real stars here are the fluffy, white “cotton” tufts that appear after it blooms—they give the plant a whimsical, eye-catching look. In the wild, this grass loves marshes and wet meadows. If you’re planting it in a container, remember: it’s a thirsty one! You’ll want to keep the soil constantly wet or even slightly flooded to keep it happy.
++Pheasant’s Tail Grass (Anemanthele lessoniana)
Got a shady corner? Pheasant’s Tail Grass (also known as New Zealand Wind Grass) is your go-to. While the blades might stay a bit greener in the shade compared to the fiery oranges they get in the sun, the plant will still grow beautifully. It has a lovely habit of changing colors with the seasons, often returning to a lush green in the winter. Expect it to reach about 2 to 2.5 feet tall.
++Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis)
Feather Reed Grass is a classic for a reason. It features gorgeous green foliage and elegant flower spikes that are so pretty, people often cut them to use in floral arrangements. This grass loves a sunny spot with warm, nutrient-rich soil. Because it grows from rhizomes, it’s very hardy and likes to spread out. Planting it in a pot is actually a smart move—it keeps that vigorous growth contained exactly where you want it!
++Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’)
If you want a pop of color, Purple Fountain Grass is a showstopper with its deep burgundy-red blades. It usually hits about 2 feet in height when grown in a container. This beauty is a bit of a “foodie,” so make sure to use high-quality potting soil and give it some fertilizer. Find it a warm, sunny spot where it can soak up the rays, and it’ll reward you with those iconic fuzzy plumes.
++Diamond Grass (Calamagrostis brachytricha)
Diamond Grass is famous for its stunning, feathery plumes that look incredible even in the dead of winter. It’s very cold-hardy, and there’s nothing quite like the sight of frost or a light dusting of snow clinging to the dried stalks—it’s a photographer’s dream! For the best results, place your pot in a sunny area that’s protected from harsh winds.
++Maiden Grass (Miscanthus)
Miscanthus comes in all shapes and sizes. If you go with Giant Miscanthus, you’re looking at a plant that can tower up to 12 feet! On the flip side, there are dwarf varieties that stay perfectly compact. It’s been a garden favorite for ages thanks to its dense growth and silvery tassels. Growing Maiden Grass in a container is a great way to enjoy its beauty without worrying about it taking over your entire garden bed.
++Pampas Grass (Cortaderia selloana)
Pampas Grass is the ultimate statement piece. While the leaves themselves grow about 3 feet tall, the massive, fluffy flower plumes shoot up much higher, giving it a very grand appearance. It’s a sun-lover and prefers a spot sheltered from the wind. Because it grows so thick and tall, it’s actually a fantastic choice to use as a natural privacy screen for your patio.
%%Zebra Grass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’)
Looking for something with a bit of a “wild” side? Zebra Grass is such a cool choice. It gets its name from the horizontal yellow stripes that run across its green blades, mimicking a zebra’s coat. It’s a conversation starter for sure! Just like its cousins, this one loves a sunny spot to keep those stripes looking bright and bold.