Smooth Cord Grass (Spartina Alterniflora) Is a Beautiful but Rugged Ornamental Grass That Will Tolerate Saltwater

Spartina Alterniflora is a versatile, gorgeous, but still rugged perennial plant that is native to the Atlantic coast of North America. This species of grass is perfect for water gardens and can also help in maintaining the health of coastal marshes and estuaries. This plant is hardy in USDA plant hardiness Zones 3 through 9, making it perfect in a variety of climates across North America.

Smooth Cord Grass happily grows in a range of soil types, from sandy to muddy, and it can withstand brackish water conditions. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade, especially in the middle to late afternoon.

The stems of the Spartina Alterniflora can grow up to three feet above the water and have a diameter of about half an inch. The leaves are linear and are approximately eight inches in length. Smooth Cord Grass plants have a distinctive flowering head, which consists of tiny flowers that are held above the water on slender spikes. The seed heads are attractive, and they provide food and cover for a variety of wildlife.

Smooth Cord Grass Is Easy to Grow and Almost Effortless to Maintain

When planting Smooth Cord Grass in a pond or water garden, it is best to sink the roots into the mud or soil, and to leave the tips of the stems above the water. The plant will spread over time, and this creeping habit will help to maintain the health of the water by filtering pollutants and excess nutrients.

Spartina Alterniflora is low-maintenance and does not require much care once it is established. It is important to remove any dead or yellowed stems to help maintain the plant's appearance, and to prevent the buildup of decaying organic matter in the water.

Spartina Alterniflora Benefits the Ecosystem

In addition to its appealing appearance, Smooth Cord Grass provides many ecological benefits. It helps to stabilize the shoreline, reducing erosion and preserving wetlands. The plant also helps to control the spread of invasive algae species by creating a dense canopy that prevents light from reaching the water. In addition, this aquatic plant provides important home for a variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It provides shelter, food, and breeding sites for these organisms, helping to maintain the health of the local ecosystem.

Order Your Smooth Cord Grass From Wholesale Nursery Today

Spartina Alterniflora is a versatile and attractive plant that is well-suited to water gardens, marshes, and estuaries. Its hardiness and low-maintenance make it a popular choice for pond and water garden enthusiasts, and its environmental benefits make it a valuable addition to any ecosystem. Please place your order for Smooth Cord Grass with the experts at Wholesale Nursery today.