Featured Plant - Tufted Hairgrass

Tufted Hairgrass (Descampsia cespitosa) is a widespread bunchgrass that is a fantastic native alternative to ornamental bunchgrasses. Its native range stretches south from Saskatchewan west to California and is found in all states in between.

This bunchgrass can be found growing in full sun - partial shade and commonly has medium water use.

Tufted Hairgrass grows in neatly rounded, dark green tussocks. In June, hair-like flowers bloom 2 - 3 ft above the base of the grass. Its vibrant color and unique flowers creates textural interest in the home garden. In large-scale applications, Tufted Hairgrass is useful for stabilizing disturbed sites and streambanks. This grass can spread by seed, but only when it has little to no competition and is growing in the ideal conditions.

Range map of Plant's distribution

This is an excellent shade garden grass and provides a larval food source for several butterflies. If planting in full sun, consistently medium-moist soil is needed for growth success. Tufted Hairgrass is hardy to zones 4 - 8. 

Plant Tufted Hairgrass in partial shade with your native Columbine, Roundleaf Alumroot, and Idaho Fescue.

Summary:

Bloom Time: June	Water Use: Medium
Bloom Color: Green - Brown	Sun: Full Sun - Full Shade
Plant Height: 2 - 3ft	Hardiness: 4 - 8

Photos provided by Great Bear Native Plants, Map provided by BONAP

Sources:

https://www.prairienursery.com/tufted-hairgrass-deschampsia-cespitosa.html?srsltid=AfmBOorPbh-Yrv4rL4pySsppWjDRnAlc6IZEttVx_FoUz_bfE_Xedx2-