While it is related to chestnuts, its not generally subject to chestnut blight, and if it gets it, will likely recover. Natural settings as a small shade tree or large shrub.

Tolerant of occasional/brief inundation such as can occur in storm surges. Moderate. Tolerant of salty wind and may get some salt spray. Exposure to salt spray would be uncommon (major storms).

There is potential name confusion with this species since it was formerly considered to be a subspecies of O. hirtellus (Oplismenus hirtellus subsp. setarius) The Florida Plant Atlas indicates that Oplismenus setarius is common in Florida. O. hirtellus (not the subspecies) has been documented from only one Florida county, and it is a non-native. This is a low groundcover that can be effective seasonally as a low-use turf in shady locations.

In nature, this grows in habitats with frequent fire.  In the garden, it will grow best if you remove built-up thatch (or burn it once every few years if you can). Bunching grass in a wildflower garden. Border of walkways. This is a low plant, so best used near the front of a group planting.

Wildflower garden. Flowers in spring and summer.

This is a rare plant that should not be disturbed in the wild. Could be used as a border along sandy paths or walkways or as a foundation plant.