Buffalograss
Bouteloua dactyloides · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, Subfamily Chloridoideae
Grass Category
Native Prairie Grass / Low-maintenance Turf
Variety / Cultivar
Native species (Common); varieties like 'Legacy' or 'UC Verde' are common in cultivation
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-9; very cold hardy for a warm-season grass, enters straw-colored dormancy after first frost
About This Grass
A low-growing, grey-green grass that rarely exceeds 4-6 inches. Known for its fine texture and ability to go dormant during drought.
Blade Characteristics
Fine width (<2mm), flat or slightly curled, pointed tips, grey-green color, rolled vernation, hairy ligule, no auricles
Root System
Deep fibrous root system (up to 5-8 feet), stoloniferous spread, low thatch tendency, slow establishment from seed
Growing Information
Origin Region
North American Great Plains (Canada to Mexico); adapted to semi-arid regions
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous; spreads via above-ground runners to form a low, dense sod
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun (minimum 6-8 hours), very low water needs, exceptionally drought tolerant, prefers well-drained alkaline soils
Mowing & Maintenance
2-4 inches for lawn use, infrequent mowing needed, low fertilization (1-2 lbs N/1000 sq ft), very low maintenance
Special Characteristics
Exceptional drought tolerance, high heat tolerance, moderate wear tolerance, excellent for erosion control in dry climates
Ecological Information
Native to North America, provides nesting material for birds and forage for grazing wildlife, non-invasive, vital prairie component