Bouteloua gracilis

Also Known As

Bouteloua oligostachya
Chondrosum gracile
Eyebrow Grass
Grama Grass
Mosquito Grass

Plant type

perennial, grass / grass like

size

H: 9"-18"
W: 18"-24"

planting zones

3a-10b

More Options

Bouteloua gracilis plant details

Bouteloua gracilis is a fast-growing deciduous perennial grass (or grassy in appearance) with chocolate and green foliage. In fall chocolate flowers emerge. Features grassy texture. Grows well with sun and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Does well in average and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Bouteloua gracilis

Plant type: perennial grass (or grassy in appearance)
Plant family: poaceae
Foliage: deciduous chocolate and green
Mature size: 18 IN - 24 IN - wide, 9 IN - 18 IN - tall
Flowers: chocolate blooms in fall
Uses: easy-to-grow

GROWING CONDITIONS for Bouteloua gracilis

USDA Zones: 3a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

One of the main grasses of our Great Plains, this densely tufted perennial is unassuming until you look closely at its purple, comb-like flowers (nice for dried arrangements) borne horizontally on 8-24" stems. S/M-D/GDr

By: Forestfarm

We wish more plants were like this one! This North American native is tough, drought tolerant, and adds delicacy and movement wherever it's placed. Slightly iridescent, Mosquito Grass offers tiny seed heads borne atop thin, wiry stems. Resembling aerial minnows, the inflorescences dart above 1 ft. clumps of dense, narrow blades. Plant them next to a garden seat or steps where they can be enjoyed at close range.

By: Digging Dog Nursery

Native to many of the prairies of the west and midwest United States, this bunch grass was an important plant for retaining the soil. When much of it was plowed under for agriculture, the loss of the root structure contributed to the Dust Bowl in the 1930’s. Named “Eyebrow Grass” because the flowers resemble an eyebrow floating on thin stems. Grows to 18” tall. Can be used as a lawn substitute, although it goes deciduous in winter. Very drought tolerant and looks great mixed with wildflowers. Also tolerates heat, cold and mowing. Blooms all summer. Flowers look good back lit by the setting sun and make good dried flowers.