Hystrix patula (Elymus hystrix)

One of the few ornamental grasses for shade, Hystrix patula makes a statement when its bottlebrush flower clusters expand on 3-foot-tall stems in late spring and early summer -- a time of year when shade plantings can use some extra visual interest.  Valuable and rarely available. 

Propagated from seed.  Deep 3.5-inch pots.  Zone 3.  Photo: Daderot

Part shade; most soils; 36"x18"; late spring to summer