Buffalograss (Dormant/Mixed State)
Bouteloua dactyloides (formerly Buchloe dactyloides) · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Native Prairie, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Native/Common variety (Likely 'Sundancer' or 'UC Verde' if cultivated)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-9; highly cold tolerant for a warm-season grass; enters straw-colored dormancy after the first hard frost.
About This Grass
A short, fine-textured grass that grows 3-8 inches if left unmowed. In this image, it is seen in a state of winter or drought dormancy (tan/straw color) with small green patches of emerging growth or accompanying broadleaf weeds. The canopy is dense but low-profile.
Blade Characteristics
Fine width (<2mm), gray-green to blue-green color when active, curling or twisting as it dries. Tip is pointed; vernation is rolled; ligule is a fringe of hairs; auricles are absent.
Root System
Deep fibrous root system (reaching up to 5 feet), highly efficient at water extraction. Slow establishment speed from seed but forms a dense, durable sod once mature.
Growing Information
Origin Region
North American Great Plains (Canada to Mexico); thrives in arid and semi-arid regions
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous (spreads via above-ground runners), forming a low-growing, sod-forming mat
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires at least 6-8 hours); very low water needs once established; exceptional drought tolerance; prefers well-drained alkaline soils.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 2-4 inches; low frequency; 1-2 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year; minimal dethatching needed; maintenance level: Low.
Special Characteristics
Excellent drought resistance, low fertility requirement, high heat tolerance, and low maintenance. However, it has poor shade tolerance and low salt tolerance.
Ecological Information
Native to North America; provides forage for livestock and nesting cover for ground birds; highly effective for water conservation and soil stabilization in xeriscaping.