Sea Oats, Sea Oats Grass

Uniola paniculata

Physical Characteristics

Uniola paniculata is a PERENNIAL growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Virginia to Texas and Mexico.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked and eaten as a cereal[177, 183]. Said to have a very good flavour[183]. Seed production in the wild is generally poor[270].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known