We Now Know What The Tall, Fluffy Grass is in Minnesota Ditches

Every time I drive by a ditch full of this fluffy-looking grass, I keep saying, "I need to figure out what that is!".  I'm sure you have seen it.  It has popped up along the side of the road in various places, almost like it was planted there on purpose, but then you realize you aren't really sure if it was intentional or just some natural vegetation popping up in the fall in Minnesota.

I may not know ALL of the grasses that are tall and gorgeous that are showcasing themselves right now in Minnesota, but I did find some info out about a few that are showing up in our state this fall.

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What is that tall, fluffy-looking grass popping up everywhere in Minnesota right now?

A few of the grasses that you might see around the Land of 10,000 Lakes in ditches and in some landscaping are the following:

• Amur Silver Grass - An invasive species in Minnesota, this ornamental grass can form dense patches that crowds out other species.  Learn more about Amur Silver Grass at dnr.state.mn.us.
• Miscanthus sinensis (aka Chinese Silver Grass)- perennial grass that grows up to 12 feet tall, usually in clumps.

Isn't that fluffy-looking grass in Minnesota pampas grass?

Could that fluffy-looking grass in Minnesota ditches be pampas grass?  Yes.  However, pampas grass seems to be the generic name that many have adopted for "tall ornamental grass".  The reality is that pampas grass is generally much larger, growing from 6 to 12 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide.  Learn more about the characteristics of pampas grass here.

What are some hardy grasses for Minnesota?

If you are looking for hardy grasses for your landscaping that can survive the elements of Minnesota, The University of Minnesota indicated on its website the following as top picks:

• Blue Heaven - about 40 to 48 inches tall, 25 to 30 inches wide (See photos and Learn More)
• Golden Sunset - about 48 to 72 inches tall, 36 inches wide (See photos and Learn More)

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