Ornamental grass
Blue Grama
Bouteloua gracilis
Colorado's state grass, with 'eyelash' seed heads. Also a low-water lawn alternative.
- Native
- Deer-resistant
Quick facts
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 3–10
- Water
- Very low once established
- Sun
- Full sun
- Size
- 12–24 in. tall × 12–18 in. wide
- Bloom & interest
- Eyelash-shaped seed heads, purple-tinged then blond, midsummer through winter
- Plant type
- Ornamental grass
- Native range
- Native across the Great Plains and interior West, from Canada to Mexico; Colorado's state grass
Why we recommend it
Colorado's state grass and the epitome of prairie toughness, tolerating extreme drought with charming eyelash seed heads and doubling as a low-water lawn substitute.
Best regions: Front RangeHigh DesertGreat BasinSouthwestTexas
How to grow it
Watering to establish
Seed or plant plugs in late spring and keep moist until established (6–8 weeks); then water only in severe drought.
Pruning
Leave it standing for winter; mow or cut to 2–3 in. in early spring. As a lawn, mow high (3–4 in.) and infrequently.
Soil
Any well-drained soil, including clay and sand. Needs warm soil to green up (late spring).
Pairs well with
Read more
Where to buy
Shop Blue Grama from trusted growers. For the best selection of xeric plants, try a mail-order specialist or ask a local independent nursery.
- High Country Gardens (opens in a new tab)Xeric specialist
- Nature Hills Nursery (opens in a new tab)Wide selection
- American Meadows (opens in a new tab)Perennials & seeds
- Etsy (opens in a new tab)Small growers
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