How to Grow Ravenna Grass
iNaturalist
Ravenna Grass
Erianthus ravennae
grassRavenna grass is a tall, ornamental perennial grass that produces stunning silvery-white plumes in late summer and fall. Growing 8-12 feet tall, it creates a dramatic focal point in landscapes with its feathery seed heads and attractive foliage. This frost-hardy grass is prized for its architectural presence and seasonal interest.
When should you plant Ravenna Grass in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Ravenna Grass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Ravenna Grass
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Ravenna Grass
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ravenna Grass dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-10, with best performance in zones 7-9
Sign up free to see if Ravenna Grass grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Ravenna Grass timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy & Spring Emergence
Winter dormancy until May growthPlant appears dormant through winter with brown, dried foliage. New green shoots emerge in mid to late spring.
Cut back dead foliage in early spring before new growth begins (late winter to early spring). Do not cut too early as frost may damage new shoots.
Vegetative Growth
May to July, 8-10 weeksVigorous upright growth of fine-textured, grayish-green foliage. Plant reaches full height by mid-summer.
Ensure consistent moisture during this active growing phase. Provide full sun exposure. Minimal fertilization needed; too much nitrogen encourages excessive foliage.
Plume Development
Late July to August, 3-4 weeksTall stems extend above foliage with developing inflorescences appearing at the tips. Flower buds form silvery-white and densely packed.
Avoid pruning or heavy disturbance. Ensure adequate sunlight for full plume development. Water moderately if dry.
Flowering & Plume Maturation
August to September, 4-6 weeksLarge, spectacular silvery-white feathery plumes extend 1-2 feet above foliage. Plumes become increasingly dense and visually striking.
Plumes are attractive fresh and dry. Stake tall plants in windy locations if needed. Enjoy the display for weeks.
Seed Dispersal & Senescence
September through FebruaryPlumes release seeds in the wind. Foliage gradually fades to tan or bronze, providing winter interest. Dried plumes persist into winter.
Seed-bearing plumes can self-sow; remove spent plumes before seed dispersal if self-sowing is unwanted. Leave dried foliage for winter interest.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Ensure good air circulation with proper spacing. Remove infected foliage. Avoid overhead watering. Fungicide spray if severe.
-
Maintain plant vigor with appropriate watering and drainage. Remove affected leaves. Improve air circulation.
-
Inspect regularly. Horticultural oil spray in early season. Prune heavily infested stems.
-
Increase humidity with overhead misting. Insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure adequate watering.
Uses
Cut & Dried Floral Arrangements
CraftRavenna grass plumes are highly valued in floral design for both fresh and dried arrangements. The silvery-white feathery plumes add texture, height, and elegance to bouquets and can last for months when properly dried. [source]
Landscape & Garden Design
HouseholdIts dramatic 8-12 foot height and striking plumes create a focal point in gardens. The plant provides late-season color and movement, and dried foliage offers winter interest in mixed borders and contemporary landscapes. [source]
Wildlife Food & Habitat
WildlifeSeeds produced by mature plumes provide food for birds and small wildlife. The dense foliage offers shelter and nesting habitat for various bird species throughout the growing season. [source]
Ethnobotanical Use
CulinaryWhile not commonly used in modern cuisine, Erianthus species have historical ethnobotanical applications in traditional medicine in parts of Asia and Africa for treating inflammation and respiratory conditions. [source]
Wind & Movement Effects
HouseholdThe tall, feathery plumes catch wind and create graceful movement throughout the garden, adding dynamic visual interest during breezy conditions. The rustling effect provides sensory garden appeal. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cut plumes for fresh arrangements when fully mature and still silvery (August-September). For dried arrangements, cut stems when plumes are fully developed and bring indoors to dry completely in a warm, dry location. Plumes can also be left on the plant through winter for landscape interest, providing seed for wildlife.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Ravenna grass is often confused with pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana), but Erianthus ravennae is hardier, grows taller in ideal conditions, and produces plumes earlier in the season.
- 🌱 The plant's silvery plumes have been used historically in Victorian-era dried flower arrangements and continue to be a florist favorite for wedding and formal events.
- 🌱 In its native habitat (Mediterranean region and parts of Asia), Ravenna grass colonizes disturbed areas and sandy soils, demonstrating its remarkable adaptability and resilience in challenging growing conditions.
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Ravenna Grass planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Ravenna Grass seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Ravenna Grass timeline →