Broadleaf Chasmanthium
Chasmanthium latifolium
Last reviewed: July 2026
Chasmanthium latifolium is a native ornamental grass found across the eastern and central United States. It produces distinctive flat, oat-like seed heads from July through September.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Broadleaf Chasmanthium as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, DE and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Broadleaf chasmanthium is an attractive ornamental grass with distinctive flat, drooping seed heads that provide visual interest from summer through winter. This clump-forming grass grows in graceful arching mounds and turns golden bronze in fall. The seeds create attractive movement and sound in breezes.
Growing Broadleaf Chasmanthium
Grow Broadleaf Chasmanthium in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Broadleaf Chasmanthium is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Can self-seed aggressively if not managed
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during summer blooming. Seeds provide food for birds through fall and winter months.
Common questions
- Where is Broadleaf Chasmanthium native?
- Chasmanthium latifolium is native to much of the eastern and central United States, from Massachusetts south to Florida and west to Arizona, including states like Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
- When does Chasmanthium latifolium bloom?
- Broadleaf Chasmanthium blooms from July through September, producing its characteristic flattened, drooping seed heads that persist into winter.
- What pollinators visit Chasmanthium latifolium?
- Bees and beetles are known to visit Broadleaf Chasmanthium, though as a wind-pollinated grass, it relies primarily on wind rather than insects for pollination.
- What growing conditions does Broadleaf Chasmanthium prefer?
- Chasmanthium latifolium is adaptable to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade and tolerates a wide range of moisture levels from dry to wet soils, making it versatile for different garden situations.
- Is Broadleaf Chasmanthium toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Broadleaf Chasmanthium as toxic to livestock.
- Is Broadleaf Chasmanthium HOA-friendly?
- Broadleaf Chasmanthium is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Broadleaf Chasmanthium? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz