Blue Grama Grass (Bouteloua gracilis): Native Grass with Eyelash Seed Heads

Blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) is a perennial grass from the Americas bearing unusually bent and flattened inflorescences. Being native to open grasslands, they are drought tolerant and at home in meadows. They provide the garden with shades of tan that persist throughout winter.

Noteworthy Characteristics: Fancifully bent, brownish-purple seed heads perch atop wiry stems and fine foliage. Suitable for specimen planting or in mixed borders.

Care: Grow in light, well-drained soil in full sun; cannot tolerate wet winters.

Propagation: Divide from mid-spring to early summer; sow seed in cold frames in spring.

Problems: Damping off, rust, head and leaf smuts, tar spot, fungal spots, root rot.

Overview

• Height: 1 ft. to 3 ft.
• Spread: 6 in. to 12 in.
• Growth Habit: Clumps
• Growth Pace: Moderate Grower
• Light: Full Sun Only
• Moisture: Dry to Medium
• Maintenance: Low
• Characteristics: Attracts Song Birds, Showy Foliage, Showy Seed Heads
• Bloom Time: Summer
• Flower Color: Brown, Purple
• Uses: Beds and Borders, Ground Covers
• Style: Meadow Garden
• Seasonal Interest: Summer Interest
• Tolerance: Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant
• Type: Grasses