River oats (Chasmanthium latifolium) are one of my favorite plants that grow throughout the Piedmont region, and it’s a sure sign of autumn’s arrival when their seed heads begin turning brown.
The seeds typically drop by late November, and rain disperses them throughout the winter months, ensuring that bright, new clumps will appear in early spring.
River oats prefer at least some shade and are often found in low, moist areas, but they’re tough little bastards that thrive practically anywhere—even in harsh urban conditions.
On my first visit to Philadelphia, I was happy to see them growing in abundance along the sidewalks. This is where I’m supposed to be, I remember thinking. Nature shows the way.
