Species › Plants › River Oats

River Oats

Chasmanthium latifolium

CommonPlant
Illustration of River Oats (Chasmanthium latifolium)

River Oats is a perennial grass known for its flat, drooping seed heads that resemble oats. It is valued for its ornamental appeal and ability to thrive in shaded areas. This grass is often used in landscaping for its unique texture and adaptability.

Habitat
Found in moist, shaded areas along rivers and streams.
Diet
Its seeds provide food for birds, and it offers cover for small wildlife.
How common
Common

Best time to see a River Oats

The best time to see a River Oats is June–October, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 28,455 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Not certain it is a River Oats? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.

Recent River Oats sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

Spotted a River Oats?

Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.

Get Huck - free
5,300+species
63national parks
50states

More plants

Riverbank Grape
Riverbank Grape
Vitis riparia
Rock Elm
Rock Elm
Ulmus thomasii
Rock Polypody
Rock Polypody
Polypodium virginianum
Rock Spikemoss
Rock Spikemoss
Selaginella rupestris
Rocky Mountain Bristlecone Pine
Rocky Mountain Bristlecone Pine
Pinus aristata
Rocky Mountain Juniper
Rocky Mountain Juniper
Juniperus scopulorum
Rocky Mountain Maple
Rocky Mountain Maple
Acer glabrum
Rocky Mountain Penstemon
Rocky Mountain Penstemon
Penstemon strictus