Bent Arm Plumegrass

(Saccharum brevibarbe)

Bent Arm Plumegrass (Saccharum brevibarbe)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 45" - 58"
High Temp. 87°F - 93°F
Low Temp. 29°F - 40°F

Summary

Saccharum brevibarbe, commonly known as Bent Arm Plumegrass, is a deciduous perennial grass native to open woodlands, wet savannas, and marsh edges in the Southeastern USA. It typically grows to a height of 2-6 feet (0.6-1.8 meters) and a width of 1-6 feet (0.3-1.8 meters), featuring a clumping form with tall, arching stems and feathery flower plumes that appear in late summer to fall. The flowers range from purplish to silver-white and are quite showy, making the grass a striking addition to naturalistic plantings.

Bent Arm Plumegrass is valued for its ornamental plumes, which add texture and movement to the garden. It is often used in meadow gardens, as a border plant, or for naturalized areas. This grass is relatively low-maintenance, tolerating a range of soil types, though it prefers moist, well-drained soils. It is drought-tolerant once established and can thrive in both full sun and part shade. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, it can self-seed prolifically, which may be considered undesirable in some settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 2-6 feet
  • Width: 1-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, wet savannas, and marsh edges

Other Names

Common Names: Shortbeard Plumegrass, Short-Beard Plume Grass

Scientific Names: Saccharum brevibarbe, Erianthus brevibarbis, Saccharum brevibarbe var. brevibarbe, Calamagrostis rubra, Erianthus alopecuroides var. brevibarbis, Erianthus brevibarbis var. brevibarbis, Erianthus saccharoides var. brevibarbis

GBIF Accepted Name: Saccharum brevibarbe (Michx.) Pers.