River Mist Northern sea oats (Chasmanthium latifolium ‘River Mist’), formerly Uniola latifolia, is a recent plant introduction with striking green and white variegated foliage on slightly arching stems. River Mist grows shorter than the species, 30-36 inches tall and 24-36 inches wide.

Northern sea oats is one of the more shade tolerant of the ornamental grasses, from full sun to light shade in northern gardens (USDA hardiness zones 5-6) and in partial shade further south (zones 7-8). River Mist thrives in an average, medium to wet, well-drained soil. Soil nutritional needs are minimal, perhaps 2 lbs of 10-10-10 or equivalent fertilizer per 100 feet of garden bed.

River Mist is most distinguished by the flat, drooping oat seed heads in late summer. Seed heads flutter in the slightest of summer breezes. Seed heads emerge green and turn purplish bronze in very late summer. By early winter most seed heads may collapsed under heavy snow loads. Otherwise, withered foliage and seed heads may contribute some winter landscape interest. All growth should cut back and gathered up by late winter.

Sea oats has no serious insect or disease problems and is deer resistant. It may require staking if grown in a too shady a location. Seed heads and foliage are excellent in dried floral arrangements.

Its delicate arching habit and bright variegation makes River Mist a great choice for a front flower border, in naturalized areas, or mixed with other plants in large containers. It easily self-seeds and may spread or naturalize aggressively.