Complete Gardening
Enhancing a garden with zinnias requires the right companions, and ornamental grasses are a superb choice. These grasses not only accentuate the vibrant colors of zinnias but also attract pollinators, ensuring a buzzing, lively garden.
Let’s explore seven ornamental grasses that can transform your outdoor space into a haven for both beauty and biodiversity.
1. Purple Fountain Grass
Purple Fountain Grass provides a striking contrast to zinnias with its arching burgundy plumes. These grasses wave gently in the wind, adding movement and texture. Plant them in clusters around zinnias; their dark hues highlight zinnias’ bright blooms.
Pollinators love the movement and shelter this grass offers. Water moderately and provide full sun for best growth. Its drought tolerance makes it a gardener’s favorite. Whether in containers or borders, Purple Fountain Grass draws the eye and complements the vividness of zinnias beautifully.
2. Blue Oat Grass
Blue Oat Grass features striking bluish blades that play off zinnia colors. These ornamental grasses bring a timeless elegance to any garden. Their shape forms a lovely mound that softens the rigid structure of zinnias.
Planted alongside zinnias, they enhance visual interest with their unique color. Pollinators find refuge within the dense foliage. Ideal in rock gardens or borders, Blue Oat Grass thrives in well-drained soil. As a low-maintenance choice, it requires minimal water, making it perfect for sustainable gardens.
3. Feather Reed Grass
Feather Reed Grass is tall and graceful, offering vertical structure amidst zinnia clusters. Its plumes catch the light, creating a dynamic garden feature. This grass adapts well to different soil types, making it versatile.
Pollinators are drawn by its height and swaying motion. Place it behind lower zinnias to add depth to your garden design. With moderate watering needs and full sun preference, Feather Reed Grass complements zinnias while inviting beneficial insects.
4. Japanese Forest Grass
Japanese Forest Grass offers a graceful cascading effect, perfect for borders near zinnias. Its golden hues contrast beautifully with zinnias’ bright shades, creating visual harmony in shaded areas.
This grass prefers partial shade, making it ideal for understory plantings. It attracts pollinators seeking shelter and diversity. Moist, well-drained soil is its preference, and while it demands a bit more care, the payoff is a stunning, layered look in your garden.
5. Switchgrass
Switchgrass is known for its tall, airy plumes that create an open, inviting atmosphere. Its upright form pairs well with bushy zinnias, offering contrast and structure to garden beds.
Pollinators appreciate its shelter and seed heads. Switchgrass thrives in full sun and tolerates various soil conditions. Its deep roots help prevent erosion, adding an ecological benefit to your garden setup. This hardy grass is a robust choice for enhancing zinnias.
6. Muhly Grass
Muhly Grass captivates with its airy, purple-pink plumes that catch the evening light beautifully. These delicate grasses create a dreamy effect when paired with bold zinnias.
Their soft texture contrasts vividly with zinnia’s solid flowers, adding a touch of whimsy. Pollinators are drawn to its blooms’ gentle sway. It’s drought-resistant and loves full sun, making it a sustainable choice. Whether in mass plantings or as accents, Muhly Grass enhances any garden.
7. Lemongrass
Lemongrass offers more than just aroma; its tall, slender stalks add height and drama to zinnia plantings. The citrus scent repels pests, benefiting your garden organically.
Pollinators enjoy the shelter provided by its dense growth. Lemongrass prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It’s not only a culinary delight but also a visual treat beside colorful zinnias. Use it for a tropical touch, or as a natural barrier in your garden layout, enhancing both beauty and function.