This native California grass, commonly known as deer grass, can survive with very little water, although it looks best with at least some water. The Getty Museum in Los Angeles has planted great stands of it. The flower stems are very tall and it is very effective in masses. It should be cut back every few years for best appearance.
Sesleria autumnalis is a meadow grass reaching twelve to eighteen inches with light green foliage. Flowers appear in the spring and fade gracefully throughout the summer. It tolerates a wide range of conditions. Sesleria caerulea is low growing to eight inches tall, The leaves are green on the bottom, silver on top and slightly twisted so that both colors are visible. Flowers are inconspicuous.
Bamboo is really a giant grass, hence its inclusion in the grass category. There are two main types of bamboo – clumping and running. Clumping varieties will increase gradually and not take over the universe. Bambusa and most Fargesia will do well in this area. Running bamboos can become very invasive if allowed to do so, but…
Carex tenuiculmis is a handsome, brownish red grass. It grows two to three feet tall in full sun and needs only minimal water. Carex testacea is another colorful grass that has very bright orange blades when planted in full sun. It stays attractive throughout the year and likewise requires only minimal water once established.
