Sideoats Grama
Bouteloua curtipendula · Warm-season, perennial, C4
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Grass Category
Native Prairie and Erosion Control
Hardiness Zones
USDA zones 4 through 9, exhibiting strong cold hardiness and heat tolerance with winter dormancy.
About This Grass
Upright native grass reaching 1 to 3 feet tall with grayish-green leaves turning tan in winter. Distinctive seed head features numerous small, oat-like spikelets hanging uniformly from one side of the flowering stalk.
Blade Characteristics
Flat or rolled blades, narrow width around 1/4 inch, blue-green color, hairy margins near the base.
Growing Information
Growth Habit
Bunch-type with short rhizomes, forming open, upright clumps
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun and low to moderate water with high drought tolerance. Adapts well to well-drained alkaline or sandy soils.
Mowing & Maintenance
Usually left unmown in natural areas; if used in low-input turf, maintain at 3 to 4 inches. Very low maintenance needs.
Notes
Not squirrel tail grass looks a bit like big blue stem