Type: Perennial, cool-season native bunchgrass
Sun: Full sun; tolerates light partial shade
Water Needs: Low to medium; drought tolerant once established and adapted to dry prairie environments
Height: 1–2' tall
Spread: 8–18"
Spacing: 10–18" apart
Bloom Time: May–July
Bloom Description: Airy, narrow spikes of pale green to silvery flower panicles that emerge in late spring. The delicate seed heads rise above gray-green foliage and gradually mature to tan, often remaining attractive into summer and sometimes winter.
Maintenance: Very low; cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring if desired. Plants may self-seed lightly and can be divided in early spring.
Soil Drainage: Prefers dry to medium, well-drained soils; thrives in sandy, gravelly, or rocky soils and does not perform well in poorly drained conditions.
Wildlife Value: Seeds provide food for songbirds and small mammals, and the plant offers habitat for insects while supporting grassland ecosystem diversity.
Garden Use: Excellent for native meadows, prairie restorations, rock gardens, erosion control plantings, and low-water landscapes. Its fine texture and early-season seed heads add movement and structure among native wildflowers.