Ornamental grasses, which are not mowed, are used primarily as a contrast with mowed turf-type grasses. Grass forms vary from low mounding to fountain shaped to tall vertical. A number of grasses change in foliage color in the fall to displays of straw yellow, orange, red or purple. The inflorescence also varies in size and color, and may change color in the fall as well. Specific attributes of grasses recommended for Nebraska are indicated in Table I .
Ornamental grasses can serve many functions in the landscape.
Ornamental grass foliage provides a surface to catch the wind. This movement adds a sense of motion to the landscape. For this reason the prairies were often visually described as an inland sea. This movement also creates rustling sound adding another dimension to your design. Thus, ornamental grasses aren't a static landscape element.