It is the state grass of Colorado and New Mexico, and a keystone species of shortgrass prairies.
Produces unique eyelash-like seed heads that extend horizontally from the stem, giving it a very distinctive look.
Leaves are fine, narrow, and blue-green in color, turning golden in fall and tan in winter.
Extremely drought-tolerant; one of the toughest native grasses for dry conditions.
Forms small clumps, sometimes spreading modestly by rhizomes.
Important forage for bison, elk, and deer, especially in prairies.
Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.
Known as one of the “big three” shortgrass prairie grasses (with buffalo grass and needle-and-thread grass).
Its “eyelash” seed heads make it a favorite for ornamental prairie-style gardens.
Low-maintenance and deer-resistant,
It is the state grass of Colorado and New Mexico, and a keystone species of shortgrass prairies.
Produces unique eyelash-like seed heads that extend horizontally from the stem, giving it a very distinctive look.
Leaves are fine, narrow, and blue-green in color, turning golden in fall and tan in winter.
Extremely drought-tolerant; one of the toughest native grasses for dry conditions.
Forms small clumps, sometimes spreading modestly by rhizomes.
Important forage for bison, elk, and deer, especially in prairies.
Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.
Known as one of the “big three” shortgrass prairie grasses (with buffalo grass and needle-and-thread grass).
Its “eyelash” seed heads make it a favorite for ornamental prairie-style gardens.
Low-maintenance and deer-resistant,
Bloom: summer
Habitats: gravel hill prairies; gravelly areas along railroads; loess hill prairies; mined land; sand prairies; sandy hill prairies
Lifespan: perennial
Moist: dry-mesic to dry
Plant type (height): grass (1 to 2 feet)
Requirements: full sun
Soil: sterile soil containing clay, gravel, or sand
