Ornamental Grasses in Kyiv
Kyiv is expanding its use of ornamental grasses as part of a new approach to urban landscaping that combines aesthetics, environmental benefits, and climate adaptation. In 2026, such plants were introduced at 117 sites across the city’s districts. These decorative perennials—known for adding texture and seasonal movement to green spaces—are now part of parks, squares, traffic interchanges, boulevards, along main roads, and in new landscape compositions. The number of such locations continues to grow.
Valentyn Mondryivskyi, deputy head of the Kyiv City State Administration, said the city is steadily increasing the number of areas with ornamental grasses.
“Today, landscaping in Kyiv is about more than just creating attractive spaces. We are intentionally reshaping the urban environment to be more resilient to climate change, more efficient in using resources, and more comfortable for residents. That is why we are expanding nature-based solutions that have long been accepted in European cities. Ornamental grasses are one example of this systematic shift in urban greening,” he said.
Benefits of Ornamental Grasses
Perennial species chosen by city gardeners include miscanthus, calamagrostis, pennisetum, and molinia. These ornamental grasses do not need frequent replacement or heavy watering. Pavlo Ivanov, director of the Kyiv City State Administration’s Department of Environmental Protection and Climate Change Adaptation, emphasized their advantages:
“Ornamental grasses offer a practical option for a modern city. They thrive in urban conditions, need far less water and care, help improve the local microclimate, capture dust, and promote biodiversity. They also stay visually attractive throughout the year, changing their appearance with each season. That is why we are consistently increasing the number of such plantings in the capital.”
Among their main advantages are:
- low-maintenance nature;
- reduced need for watering and care;
- ability to improve the microclimate;
- dust retention;
- support for biodiversity.
This planting effort is a significant move toward eco-friendly landscaping in Kyiv, one that responds to current demands and challenges.
The growing presence of ornamental grasses in Kyiv reflects a new approach to urban greening that considers climate change and residents’ needs. The initiative not only improves the capital’s appearance, but also supports a more comfortable and environmentally healthy urban space. It may also serve as an example for other Ukrainian cities aiming to improve their ecological conditions and adapt to modern challenges. In short, ornamental grasses are becoming both a decorative asset and an important tool in addressing climate change.