Glyceria canadensis (Rattlesnake Grass)

A genuine wetland obligate, rattlesnake grass provides both erosion control and its namesake ornamental seed heads in the wettest zones of a restoration project - a strong choice wherever standing water or saturated soils are a given.

Species Overview

Glyceria canadensis is a cool-season, perennial grass native to wetlands and riparian zones across North America. It grows 2 to 4 feet tall and is noted for its narrow, arching leaves and delicate, open seed heads that create a graceful appearance. This grass thrives in saturated soils and tolerates periodic flooding, and is known as "Rattlesnake Grass" for its distinctive drooping seed heads that resemble a rattlesnake's tail.

Application

• Wetland restoration and streambank stabilization - dense root system for erosion control
• Shallow-water and shore-edge plantings
• Wildlife habitat - food and cover for waterfowl and other wetland wildlife
• Naturalized wet meadow plantings

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Saturated soils; grows in wet meadows, shore edges, and shallow water
• Plant Type: Graminoid
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft. (some sources cite up to 5-6 ft.; see flags)
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Green; June-September
• Wetland Indicator Status: OBL (Obligate Wetland, regional source) - see flags
• Native Range: British Columbia to Newfoundland, south to North Carolina
• Hydrology: Wet
• Root Depth: Shallow (Under 12 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Drought Tolerance: Low
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Flood Tolerance: High - A wetland grass (mannagrass) of marshes, bogs, and wet meadows; tolerates standing water.
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Clumping/Mounding
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-7
• Pollinator Value: None significant - wind-pollinated