Northern Sea Oats is a great ornamental grass with year-round interest. The mid-summer flowers give way to showy seed heads that mature in late summer and resemble flattened 'oats'. The green foliage has a slight drooping habit that is emphasized when grown in shade and/or when laden with seeds. In the fall the seeds turn red-bronze, then take on a buff color over the winter. They can be cut and used in fresh or dried flower arrangements.

The foliage and seed heads can be left to extend the winter interest of the garden, and then cut back in February before new growth emerges.

Although it grows well in full sun, a lightly shady location is actually preferred in Utah. It grows two to three feet in height. It requires moist well drained soils and is salt tolerant and little to no pest problems. Although claimed to be a rampant grower in moist soils, we have not experienced this trait in our drier Utah conditions.