Which Ornamental Grasses Would Work In Large Pots In New York City?

Question

Our building in the Upper West Side has some large pots in front. They get direct sunlight for just a few hours a day. Sometimes the super of the building remembers to water them but often he does not. They are filled with dead or dying boxwood plants right now. We would like to replace the box with ornamental grasses on the assumption that they could be more drought resistant than the unfortunate boxwood. Could you suggest any ornamental grasses suitable for planters in New York that would survive the climate and the stress of intermittent watering – and which would look reasonably attractive throughout the year? Many thanks in advance for any help. Nick Manning

Answer 1

I find that Carex is a great container grass that is drought tolerant as well. These articles will offer other suggestions that may work:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/xeriscape/drought-ornamental-grasses.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/ornamental-grass/ornamental-grass-in-pots.htm

Answer 2

Thanks so much for such a prompt response. Carex (sedge if I understand correctly) is not particularly ornamental I think. Could you suggest anything for a planter that would survive the New York winters and looks attractive (seed heads etc.)? Thanks again.

Answer 3

You could try some of the more ornamental cultivars of Miscanthus sinensis, such as the one called 'Rosi'. It is suggested for container, as long as you control its spread. They can get a bit invasive without control, escaping its original location.